Must Visit Places on the French Riviera
The elegant and scenic strip of coastline called Cote d’Azur extended from Saint Tropez to Menton near the border with Italy. Cote d’Azur translates as Coast of Blue, known as the French Riviera, got its name from the deep blue Mediterranean Sea. This lovely tourist destination buzzes with energy during the vacation season and is popular as a playground for the famous and rich people who own extravagant vacation villas on the coast and stunning yachts docked in the harbours. World-class restaurants, private beaches, five-star hotels, and French Riviera home rentals make the place elegant and prestige. Laze under a Cannes’ cabana, sail from the port of Monaco, or enjoy people-watching on the boulevards of Nice. Visitors and tourist will surely enjoy in the pleasures and the charm of the French Riviera.
Nice
Situated in the East of the French Riviera, between the warm Mediterranean Sea and the great mountains of the Mercantour National Park, Nice has the energy of Italy and the beauty of France. Nice is full of great little boutique bar, restaurants, and cafes. The sand in the main beach of Nice is not sandy, there are few stones, so sunbathing isn’t perfect for its beach. If you’re looking for a fine sand beach, go around the coast to Coco Beach and you’ll find a perfect getaway for snorkeling, jumping off the rock into the sea, and swimming. There are tons of must-do and see in the city of Nice, such as tasting of French organic wines.
Antibes
Head over to the Westside and you’ll find the little town of Antibes, a Mediterranean village which is now a port for many high-class and most expensive yachts in the world. Tour around the narrow street of Antibes, and you’ll surely fall in love with this charming town. You can visit also the small sandy beach next to the port which is worth a visit, but it’s too crowded during the summer season, as many tourists stay on this place to unwind and enjoy the beach. Navigate your way to Chateau Grimaldi, which got its name to the Grimaldi family, who once ruled Antibes. Spend time here and enjoy the spellbinding views over the coast and to the distant mountains.
Cannes
Cannes is known as the place for glamour and glitz. Expect luxury as you enjoy every fashion boutique, world-class restaurants, and VIP nightclubs. A weekend in Cannes is enough to indulge and pamper yourself in this slightly more rich than neighboring Nice and Antibes. Go for a walk to the Promenade de la Croisette down to the sandy beach. You can also rent sun lounger for the entire day to work on your tan or just enjoy the view whilst being served fresh cocktails by your personal waiter. If you’re traveling in Cannes in May, never miss the famous Cannes Film Festival. There are tons of perfect accommodations for you and your family.
Cassis
One of the most underrated towns of French Riviera, Cassis is truly one of the best towns in South France. It is a tiny and charming fishing port which is overlooked by the impressive Cap Canaille which is the highest cliff in France. Cassis is full of great restaurants and many quirky shops. Visit the beach at the end of the Port or drink in the bar or restaurant near to it. This town is also the gateway to Les Calanques, an amazing series of coastal inlets where white limestones plunge into the crystal blue water below. Among the places in French Riviera, Cassis is the most favorite among many hikers, scuba divers, rock climbers and boating enthusiasts. To get the real feel of this amazing place, take a boat trip from Cassis into Les Calanques. Forty minutes of walk from Cassis, you’ll reach the Port Miou.
Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Villefranche-sur-Mer
A 30-minute ride from Nice are these two quaint seaside villages: the Beaulieu-sur-Mer, a picturesque vacation resort, and Villefranche-sur-Mer, with a pleasant harbor. Villefranche-sur-Mer brings joy to its visitors with its colorful waterfront buildings and Italianate Baroque church in a lush Mediterranean environment of colorful flowers and palm trees. You can also visit the small chapel in this town, the Chapelle de Saint Pierre des Pecheurs, which interior was decorated by Jean Cocteau. The other village, the Beaulieu-sur-Mer is just 4 kilometers away from Villefranche-sur-Mer. This town is worth a visit to see the Villa Grecque Kerylos. This villa is a close an exact copy of an ancient Greek nobleman’s house, filled with furnishings and décor based on items found at archaeological sites.
Ile de Porquerolles
Ile de Porquerolles has a dreamy, tropical feel with gentle crystal clear blue waters lapping against its soft sandy shores. From the French Riviera coastline, ride a boat which is only 10 minutes away. Although the island is just a short boat ride, this island gives you an impression of being too far. On the northern part of the island, it boasts its extraordinary beaches, while on the southern part features steep cliffs and hiking trails alongside creeks. Some of the most popular activities in this island during the summer season are snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. You’ll also find the little village of Porquerolles located in the center of the island, with a great selection of restaurants and hotels. To visit the Ile de Porquerolles, take a shuttle boat from Hyeres which is about an hour drive from Saint-Tropez or just less than 30 minutes of driving from Toulon.
