Things to do in French Riviera

All about French Riviera

When to visit

The annual Cannes Film Festival in May draws the most prestigious names in showbiz. Further along the coast, pastel-hued Menton becomes even more vibrant with its annual lemon festival in February when 140 tons of oranges and lemons are used to create statues up to 30 feet (9 meters) tall. Summer season on the French Riviera starts at Easter and lasts into October—or for as long as you can drink rosé outside without a coat.

Getting around

There’s no shortage of transportation options in the French Riviera. The main ports of arrival are usually Nice or Marseille, which both have large, international airports. For ultimate freedom, rent a car. The coast road between Nice and Menton (a drive of around 30 minutes) is iconic, with bird’s-eye views over the Mediterranean, but be aware that during the summer months it’s a tight-packed thoroughfare of tourists, sports cars and sweating cyclists.

Traveler tips

Cap d’Antibes is home to the famous Bay of Billionaires, and kayak tours take you right into the bay to explore the caves under the houses of the rich and famous. The secret underwater world of Cap d’Antibes doesn’t stop there. Underneath the striped lighthouse, La Fourmigue, lies an underwater city. Built as a film set in the 1960s, it was abandoned after filming was completed and is now the hidden playground of divers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the French Riviera known for?

The French Riviera is one of Europe’s most glitzy and popular vacation destinations. Also known as the Côte d’Azur, the Riviera spans the Mediterranean coast of southeastern France, as well as Monaco, and includes glamorous hubs like Nice, Cannes, Antibes, Saint-Tropez, and other high-end resort areas.

Why is the French Riviera so popular?

The French Riviera has been a major vacation destination since the 18th century. Long a glamorous retreat for the rich and famous—as well as artists and writers—the region boasts spectacular Mediterranean coastlines, sultry summer temperatures, dramatic hilltop villages, cultural hubs like Cannes and Nice, and excellent food and wine.

What do people do along the French Riviera?

The French Riviera is all about the good life (la belle vie)—leisurely meals, sailing and yacht trips, shopping stints, and swimming and sunbathing. While relaxation is key to the Riviera lifestyle, it’s also worth soaking up some urban buzz in Nice and exploring hilltop villages like Gourdon and Èze.

How many days do you need in the French Riviera?

Many French vacationers spend at least one month every summer on the Riviera, though you don’t need to stay that long to soak up its splendors. A minimum of one week will be sufficient to see highlights like Nice and Cannes, explore hilltop villages, hit the beach—and relax, too.

What towns make up the French Riviera?

The Riviera begins around Saint-Tropez, from the west, and stretches to the Italian border. It includes Fréjus, Cannes, Antibes, Èze, Monaco, Menton, and other popular resorts like Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and Juan-les-Pins. Nice is the biggest city along the French Riviera and a popular jumping-off point for explorations of the region.

What do you wear to the French Riviera?

If you’re visiting during the summer high season, prepare for warm temperatures—loose linen is always a stylish choice—and bring multiple pairs of sandals, bathing suits, and sun hats, plus light layers for cool evenings. Don’t forget to dress your best to fit in with the Côte d’Azur’s irrepressibly chic crowds.

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