Explore the French Riviera: A One-day Itinerary Guide

French Riviera, France

1 days

Sunrise over the Bay of Angels, Nice
Monte Carlo casino and fountain
Historic center of Antibes
Evening view of Monte Carlo, Monaco
Panorama of Villefranche sur Mer

About French Riviera, France

Experience the epitome of luxury and breathtaking beauty in the French Riviera, France. This sun-drenched coastline, also known as Côte d'Azur, is renowned for its glamorous beach resorts like Saint-Tropez and Cannes, home to the world-famous film festival. Explore the vibrant city of Nice with its picturesque markets and the stunning Promenade des Anglais. Visit the opulent city-state of Monaco, a playground for the rich and famous. Discover the charming hilltop villages of Eze and Saint-Paul de Vence, filled with art galleries and panoramic views. Enjoy the Riviera's exquisite cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and Provencal specialties. Whether you're seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, a deep dive into rich culture and history, or a taste of the high life, the French Riviera promises a truly unforgettable journey.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Charm and Glamour of the French Riviera

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the charming Old Town of Nice, where you can explore the narrow winding streets filled with vibrant markets and historical buildings. Don't miss the chance to visit the famous Flower Market at Cours Saleya.

Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local bistro in Nice, where you can sample traditional French Riviera cuisine such as Bouillabaisse, a rich seafood stew, or Ratatouille, a vegetable dish.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a scenic drive along the coast to the glamorous city of Cannes. Spend the afternoon exploring the city's luxurious boutiques, stunning beaches, and the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette.

Dinner

Dine at a beachfront restaurant in Cannes, where you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the Cannes Marina, where you can admire the luxury yachts and the starlit sky. If you're in the mood for some entertainment, consider catching a show at one of the city's many theaters.

Attractions in Itinerary (4)

Old Town of Nice

1
Old Town of Nice

A vibrant area filled with narrow winding streets, bustling markets, and colorful buildings.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
Flower Market at Cours Saleya

2
Flower Market at Cours Saleya

A bustling market in Nice's Old Town, where you can find a wide variety of flowers, fruits, vegetables, and local products.

Attractions
Shopping
Boulevard de la Croisette

3
Boulevard de la Croisette

Famous boulevard lined with luxury shops, hotels, and a sandy beach.

Attractions
Landmarks
Shopping
Cannes Marina

4
Cannes Marina

Cannes Marina is a popular attraction in the French Riviera, known for its beautiful yachts and boats. It's a great place for water sports and also admired for its architectural beauty.

Attractions
Tours

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Bouillabaisse

Bouillabaisse

A traditional Provençal fish stew originating from the port city of Marseille, which is not far from the French Riviera. It typically uses three types of fish and various other seafood.

Ratatouille

Ratatouille

A vegetable stew consisting of bell peppers, eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes, which are all abundant in the French Riviera. It's a staple of Provençal cuisine.

Socca

Socca

A simple, savory pancake made from chickpea flour and olive oil. It's a popular street food in Nice, a city in the French Riviera.

Salade Niçoise

A mixed salad consisting of various vegetables and tuna. It originated in Nice, hence the name.

Pissaladière

Pissaladière

A pizza-like dish topped with onions, olives, and anchovies. It's a common appetizer in the French Riviera.

Tarte Tropézienne

Tarte Tropézienne

A cream-filled pastry that was made famous in Saint-Tropez, a town in the French Riviera.

Pan Bagnat

A sandwich that is essentially a Salade Niçoise served in a bread roll. It's a popular picnic food in the French Riviera.

Tapenade

Tapenade

A spread made from olives, capers, and anchovies. It's a common appetizer in the French Riviera.

Rosé wine

Rosé wine

A type of wine that is particularly popular in the French Riviera, especially during the summer months.

Pastis

Pastis

An anise-flavored spirit that is often enjoyed as an aperitif in the French Riviera.

Soupe au Pistou

A vegetable soup with a sauce made from garlic, basil, and olive oil (pistou). It's a typical dish in Provençal cuisine.

Daube Provençale

A slow-cooked meat stew that is a classic dish in Provençal cuisine, which is the culinary tradition in the French Riviera.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the French Riviera, France, is typically between April and October. The weather during these months is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, especially in popular destinations like Nice or Cannes, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons, which are April to June and September to October. These periods offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The summer months of July and August can be quite busy due to European holidays.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 8

Wed

WWII Victory Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

July 14

Sun

Bastille Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

November 11

Mon

Armistice Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular choice for getting around the French Riviera. It provides the flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. There are numerous car rental agencies available at the airport and in the city centers. Remember to keep some change for the toll roads.

The French Riviera is well-served by the SNCF train network. The main line, known as the "Ligne d'Azur", runs along the coast and stops at most of the major towns and cities. It's a quick and efficient way to travel, especially during peak season when the roads can be busy.

The French Riviera has an extensive bus network that connects all the major towns and cities. The Lignes d'Azur network operates in Nice and its surrounding areas, while the Zou! network covers the rest of the region. Buses are a cost-effective way to travel, but can be slower than other methods.

Cycling is a popular way to get around the French Riviera, especially in the smaller towns and rural areas. There are numerous bike rental shops, and many towns have dedicated cycle paths. It's a great way to enjoy the region's beautiful scenery.

Taxis are readily available in all major towns and cities in the French Riviera. They can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from designated taxi ranks. They're a convenient option for short journeys or if you're carrying heavy luggage.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in the French Riviera, particularly in larger cities like Nice and Cannes. It's a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You'll need to download the app and have an internet connection to book a ride.

Boats and ferries are a fun way to get around the French Riviera. There are regular services between towns like Cannes, Nice, and Saint-Tropez, as well as to the islands off the coast. It's a great way to enjoy the region's stunning coastline.

Nice has a modern tram network that covers the city center and extends to the suburbs. It's a quick, efficient, and eco-friendly way to get around. Tickets can be purchased at tram stops and must be validated on board.

Many of the towns and cities in the French Riviera are compact and pedestrian-friendly. Walking is often the best way to explore, especially in areas like Nice's Old Town or the narrow streets of Saint-Paul de Vence.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 15; Fire: 112, 18; Police: 112, 17

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type E

Voltage230 V

Things to know about French Riviera, France as a first time visitor

1

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, is located in the southeastern part of France along the Mediterranean Sea.

2

The region is known for its mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from 50-60°F (10-15°C) in winter to 70-80°F (20-27°C) in summer.

3

French is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

4

The currency used is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or tips.

5

Tipping is not mandatory in France as service charge is included in your bill, but it is customary to leave small change if you're satisfied with the service.

6

Public transportation is efficient and includes trains, buses, and trams. Consider getting a transport pass for unlimited travel.

7

Driving can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow roads. If you rent a car, remember that driving is on the right side of the road.

8

The French Riviera is generally safe, but like any tourist destination, be aware of your surroundings and watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas.

9

The region is known for its glamorous lifestyle, so pack some smart casual and formal wear if you plan to visit upscale restaurants or attend events.

10

The French Riviera is not just for the rich and famous. There are plenty of free or low-cost activities like hiking, visiting local markets, or simply enjoying the beaches.

11

The region is famous for its cuisine, especially seafood and dishes like bouillabaisse and ratatouille. Don't miss out on trying local specialties.

12

The French Riviera is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).

13

The region is home to many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Cannes Film Festival and Nice Carnival. Check the local calendar before your visit.

14

Shops usually open from 9am to 7pm, with a break for lunch between 12pm and 2pm. Many smaller shops and restaurants may be closed on Sundays and Mondays.

15

Pharmacies are easily identifiable by their green crosses. Note that not all medicines available over the counter in other countries will be available without a prescription in France.

16

The tap water is safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available if you prefer.

17

The standard voltage in France is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. You may need a power plug adapter or voltage converter.

18

Public restrooms may require a small fee for use. They are usually clean and well-maintained.

19

It's customary to greet people with a kiss on both cheeks, starting with the right. However, a handshake is common in formal situations.

20

Remember to say 'Bonjour' (Good day) in the morning or 'Bonsoir' (Good evening) after sunset when entering shops or restaurants. It's considered polite and is appreciated by the locals.

Basic French to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Bonjour

bon-zhoor

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Au revoir

oh reh-vwar

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

S'il vous plaît

see voo play

Making a request

Thank you

Merci

mehr-see

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Oui

wee

Agreeing or affirming

No

Non

nohn

Disagreeing or negating

Excuse me

Excusez-moi

ex-koo-zay mwah

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Je suis désolé

zhe swee day-zo-lay

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Parlez-vous anglais?

par-lay voo ahn-glay

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Je ne comprends pas

zhe ne kom-prahn pah

Communicating lack of comprehension

Where is...?

Où est...?

oo eh

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Toilettes

twah-let

Asking for the restroom

Help

Aide

ed

In case of emergency

Food

Nourriture

noo-ree-toor

Talking about meals

Water

Eau

oh

Requesting for water

Check, please

L'addition, s'il vous plaît

la-dee-syon, see voo play

Asking for the bill at a restaurant

How much does it cost?

Combien ça coûte?

komb-yen sah koot

Asking for the price

I would like...

Je voudrais...

zhe voo-dray

Making a request or order

Good night

Bonne nuit

bon nwee

Saying goodbye in the evening

Cheers

Santé

sahn-tay

Making a toast

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimwear

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat

  • Light jacket or sweater for the evening

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size toiletries

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-size wet wipes

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger and adapter

  • Camera

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel guidebook

  • French phrasebook

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

Weather Conditions

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, is known for its mild Mediterranean climate. This means you can expect warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. In the peak summer months of July and August, temperatures can reach up to 86°F (30°C), so be sure to pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. The sea is also warm enough for swimming during this time, with water temperatures averaging around 75°F (24°C). In the cooler months from November to March, temperatures can drop to around 50°F (10°C), so it's advisable to pack warmer clothing. Rain is more frequent during this period, so don't forget your umbrella. Despite the rain, the winter months can still offer plenty of sunshine and the crowds are fewer. Spring and autumn are beautiful times to visit the French Riviera. The temperatures during these seasons are usually very comfortable, ranging between 60°F and 75°F (15°C and 24°C). These seasons also see fewer tourists, so it's a great time to explore the region without the summer crowds. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities. Remember, the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains and along the coast, so it's always good to be prepared. Lastly, don't forget to enjoy the beautiful blue skies and sunshine that the French Riviera is famous for. Whether you're lounging on the beach or exploring the charming towns, the weather is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

15° / 4°

January is the coldest month in the French Riviera, but it's still relatively mild with occasional rainfall.

February

15° / 5°

February is slightly warmer than January, with a mix of sunny and rainy days.

March

17° / 7°

March sees the beginning of spring, with more sunshine and slightly warmer temperatures.

April

20° / 10°

April is a pleasant month with more sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities.

May

24° / 14°

May is a beautiful month to visit, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

June

28° / 18°

June marks the beginning of summer, with long sunny days and warm temperatures.

July

31° / 21°

July is the hottest month, perfect for beach activities and enjoying the Mediterranean Sea.

August

31° / 21°

August is equally hot as July, with lots of sunshine and blue skies.

September

28° / 18°

September is a great month to visit, with less crowd and still warm temperatures.

October

24° / 14°

October sees the beginning of autumn, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists.

November

20° / 10°

November is a bit cooler, but still pleasant for sightseeing and other activities.

December

16° / 6°

December is cooler with shorter days, but the festive atmosphere makes it a unique time to visit.

Did you know?

Did you know that the French Riviera, also known as Côte d'Azur, is the Mediterranean coastline of the southeast corner of France, extending from Menton near the Italian border to Cassis?

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Monaco

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