Top 20 Things to Do in Côte d’Azur (France): A Comprehensive Guide

Located along the southeastern coast of France, Côte d’Azur, also known as the French Riviera, is a stunning destination that has captured the hearts of millions of visitors from all over the world. From the glitz and glamour of Cannes to the charming old town of Antibes, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the Top 20 Things To Do in Côte d’Azur (France) and provide you with all the information you need to plan the perfect trip.

1.Nice

Nice, the largest city in the French Riviera, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination that offers a wealth of attractions for visitors. Stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, explore the Old Town (Vieux Nice), and visit the stunning Notre-Dame de Nice Basilica.

2.Èze

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Èze is a charming medieval village that offers breathtaking views of the coastline. Visit the Jardin Exotique and the Château de la Chèvre d’Or, and take a stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets of this enchanting village.

3.Castle Hill

Located in Nice, Castle Hill is a historic site that offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Explore the ruins of the ancient castle, take a leisurely walk through the lush gardens, and admire the cascading waterfalls.

4.Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

Built by the Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild in the early 20th century, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a stunning Belle Époque mansion located in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Marvel at the opulent interiors, stroll through the lush gardens, and enjoy the spectacular views of the French Riviera.

5.Le Jardin Exotique

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience on the French Riviera, look no further than Le Jardin Exotique Eze. This stunning botanical garden is situated in the charming medieval village of Eze, and offers visitors an unparalleled glimpse into the beauty and diversity of the world’s plant life. With its impressive collection of exotic and rare species, as well as its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding countryside, Le Jardin Exotique Eze is truly a must-visit destination for any lover of nature and beauty.

6.Monaco

A tiny sovereign state on the French Riviera, Monaco is a glamorous destination that is famous for its luxury yachts, high-end shopping, and grand casinos. Visit the Prince’s Palace, explore the Oceanographic Museum, and take a stroll through the picturesque Old Town.

7.Port de Cassis

Located on the Mediterranean coast, Port de Cassis is a picturesque fishing village that offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and hills. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the seafood restaurants, take a boat tour of the Calanques, and visit the Cassis Market.

8.Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya

Located in Nice, the Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya is a vibrant outdoor market that offers a wide variety of fresh produce, flowers, and local crafts. Sample some of the delicious Niçoise specialties, and browse the stalls for souvenirs and gifts.

9.Marc Chagall National Museum

Located in the charming town of Nice, the Marc Chagall National Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. This museum houses a large collection of works by the famous Russian-French artist, Marc Chagall, and showcases his unique style that combines elements of Cubism, Surrealism, and Fauvism. The museum also features temporary exhibitions that showcase the works of other artists.

The museum is set in a peaceful garden, and visitors can take a stroll in the beautiful surroundings before or after their visit. The entrance fee is quite affordable, and audio guides are available in several languages.

10.Villefranche-sur-Mer

Villefranche-sur-Mer is a charming fishing village that is located just a short distance from Nice. The town’s harbor is lined with colorful buildings, and the narrow streets are filled with small cafes and shops. Villefranche-sur-Mer is also home to several beautiful beaches, which are perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.

One of the highlights of Villefranche-sur-Mer is the impressive Citadel, which was built in the 16th century to protect the town from attacks by pirates. Visitors can explore the Citadel and enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea from its walls.

11.Marché Forville

Located in the city of Cannes, Marché Forville is a bustling market that is popular with locals and tourists alike. The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Visitors can also find local specialties, such as olive oil and tapenade, as well as flowers and other goods.

Marché Forville is open every day except Monday, and visitors can browse the stalls and soak up the lively atmosphere. The market is located in the heart of Cannes, making it easy to visit while exploring the city.

12.Cannes

Cannes is perhaps best known for its annual film festival, but this glamorous city has much more to offer. Visitors can stroll along the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, which is lined with palm trees and luxury hotels. The city also has several beautiful beaches, including the popular Plage de la Croisette.

In addition to its stunning coastline, Cannes has several historic landmarks, such as the Église Notre-Dame d’Esperance and the Musée de la Castre. Visitors can also explore the winding streets of the old town and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants that line the narrow streets.

13.Citadel of Saint-Tropez – Museum of Maritime History

The Citadel of Saint-Tropez is a historic fortress that was built in the 16th century to protect the town from attacks by sea. Today, the fortress houses the Museum of Maritime History, which showcases the town’s rich maritime heritage.

Visitors can explore the fortress and enjoy stunning views of the town and the sea. The museum features exhibits that cover the history of Saint-Tropez, including its role as a major port during the Middle Ages.

14.Antibes

Antibes is a beautiful coastal town located between Cannes and Nice, known for its old town, beaches, and luxury yachts. One of the top attractions in Antibes is the Picasso Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of works by the famous artist.

The old town of Antibes is also worth exploring, with its narrow streets, charming cafes, and historic buildings. The town is surrounded by a 16th-century rampart, which offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.

15.Parque Nacional de Calanques

The Parque Nacional de Calanques is a national park located along the Mediterranean coast, between Marseille and Cassis. The park is home to a variety of wildlife and features stunning cliffs, coves, and beaches.

Visitors can explore the park on foot, following the many hiking trails that wind through the rugged landscape. There are also boat tours available, which offer a unique perspective of the park’s stunning scenery.

16.Boulevard de la Croisette

The Boulevard de la Croisette is the main promenade in Cannes, located along the Mediterranean Sea. The famous street is home to many luxurious hotels and designer shops, making it a popular destination for visitors looking for high-end shopping and dining experiences. It is also the location of the Cannes Film Festival, which is held annually in May.

The best way to enjoy the beauty of the boulevard is by taking a stroll along the promenade, enjoying the views of the sea and the palm trees that line the street. There are also many outdoor cafes and restaurants where you can relax and soak in the atmosphere.

17.Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a town located on the French Riviera, famous for its beautiful beaches and luxury lifestyle. It is a popular destination for celebrities and wealthy travelers, who come to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand.

One of the top attractions in Saint-Tropez is the Citadel of Saint-Tropez, which is home to the Museum of Maritime History. The museum displays exhibits on the town’s history as a fishing village and a center of the Mediterranean naval trade.

Other popular activities in Saint-Tropez include visiting the local markets, exploring the winding streets of the old town, and relaxing on the beaches.

18.Parc du Mugel

Located in the town of La Ciotat, Parc du Mugel is a beautiful park that is perfect for a relaxing day in nature. The park is home to several walking trails, as well as a botanical garden that features a wide variety of plants and flowers.

One of the highlights of Parc du Mugel is the beautiful Calanque de Mugel, a rocky cove that is surrounded by cliffs and turquoise waters. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters, explore the rocky shore, or simply relax on the beach.

19.Menton

Menton is a town located on the French-Italian border, known for its beautiful gardens and mild climate. One of the top attractions in Menton is the Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh, which is home to a collection of rare tropical plants.

Other popular activities in Menton include visiting the Jean Cocteau Museum, which houses a collection of works by the famous French artist, and exploring the old town, with its colorful houses and charming streets.

20.Calanque de Port-Miou

Calanque de Port-Miou is a picturesque cove located near Cassis, known for its turquoise waters and rugged cliffs. The cove is surrounded by hiking trails, which offer beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding coastline.

Visitors can also take boat tours from Cassis to explore the nearby Calanques National Park, which is home to a variety of marine life and offers some of the most stunning scenery on the French Riviera.

In conclusion, the Côte d’Azur region of France is a true gem with so much to offer visitors. From the stunning coastal towns and villages to the rich history and culture, there is truly something for everyone. Whether you are interested in art, nature, history, or simply relaxing on the beach, the Top 20 Things to Do Côte d’Azur (France) provides a comprehensive list of must-visit attractions in the region.

Make sure to visit Nice, Èze, Castle Hill, Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, Le Jardin Exotique, Monaco, Port de Cassis, Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya, Marc Chagall National Museum, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Marché Forville, Cannes, Citadel of Saint-Tropez – Museum of Maritime History, Parc du Mugel, Boulevard de la Croisette, Saint-Tropez, Antibes, Menton, Calanque de Port-Miou, and Parque Nacional de Calanques to experience the best that Côte d’Azur has to offer.

Take the time to explore and appreciate each location, and immerse yourself in the unique beauty and culture of the region. With so much to see and do, a trip to Côte d’Azur is sure to be an unforgettable experience.