3-Day Exquisite Adventure in the French Riviera, France

French Riviera, France

3 days

Tourist

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.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the city of Nice

Morning

Start your day with a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, a world-famous seaside promenade offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local bistro, where you can sample traditional Niçoise cuisine.

Afternoon

Visit the Musée Matisse, which houses a large collection of works by the French artist Henri Matisse.

Dinner

Have dinner at a seafront restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes while watching the sunset.

Evening

Take a leisurely walk through the old town of Nice, known for its narrow winding streets and vibrant nightlife.

Day 2

Discovering the glamour of Cannes

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the glamorous city of Cannes, famous for its annual film festival. Take a stroll along the Boulevard de la Croisette and enjoy the views of the luxury yachts in the harbor.

Lunch

Have lunch at a chic café in Cannes, where you can enjoy a light meal and people-watch.

Afternoon

Visit the Musée de la Castre, located in the old quarter of Cannes. The museum houses a collection of Mediterranean antiquities and 19th-century art.

Dinner

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at a restaurant in Cannes, where you can sample French Riviera cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a visit to a local jazz club, where you can enjoy live music and a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 3

Immersing in the charm of Antibes

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the city of Antibes, known for its old town and the Picasso Museum. Take a walk along the city walls for panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant in Antibes, where you can enjoy traditional Provençal cuisine.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Cap d'Antibes, a peninsula known for its luxury villas and beautiful beaches.

Dinner

Have dinner at a beachfront restaurant in Antibes, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and stunning sea views.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll through the old town of Antibes, known for its narrow winding streets and vibrant nightlife.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

1
Promenade des Anglais

Famous seafront avenue offering stunning views of the Mediterranean, lined with palm trees and luxury hotels.

Attractions

Landmarks

Tours

2
Musée Matisse

The Musée Matisse is a museum in Nice in the Alpes-Maritimes department of France devoted to the works of French painter Henri Matisse. It gathers one of the world's largest collections of his works, tracing his artistic beginnings and his evolution through his last works.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

3
Boulevard de la Croisette

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

Attractions

Landmarks

Shopping

4
Musée de la Castre

A museum located in the old part of Cannes, housing a wide collection of Mediterranean antiquities, pre-Columbian primitive art, and 19th-century Provencal landscape paintings.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

5
Picasso Museum

A museum dedicated to the works of Pablo Picasso, housed in the Château Grimaldi where the artist once lived.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

Artifacts

6
Cap d'Antibes

A luxurious peninsula known for its beautiful beaches, lavish villas, and the famous Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc.

Beaches

Landmarks

Neighborhoods

Local Food and Drinks (12)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rosé wine

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

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.

How to get around

Car Rental

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.

Train

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.

Bus

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.

Bicycle

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.

Taxi

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

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.

Boat

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.

Tram

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.

Foot

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

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
Swimwear
Beach cover-up
Evening wear
Underwear
Socks
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Sunglasses
Hat for sun protection
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Body wash
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
After-sun lotion
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First aid kit

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Guidebook or map

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Travel adapter for French outlets
Digital camera
Charger for digital camera
Portable power bank
Headphones

Miscellaneous items
Beach bag
Beach towel
Reusable water bottle
Snacks for travel
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Books or e-reader for travel entertainment
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Plastic bags for dirty clothes or wet swimwear

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.

Month	Hi / 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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Places near by French Riviera, France

Saint-Paul de Vence

Medieval hilltop village famous for its modern and contemporary art museums.

30m

20 km / 12.4 mi

How to get there

Grasse

World's perfume capital with several perfume factories and museums.

45m

44 km / 27.3 mi

How to get there

Monaco

A small independent city-state on France's Mediterranean coastline known for its upscale casinos, yacht-lined harbor and prestigious Grand Prix motor race.

1h

21 km / 13.0 mi

How to get there