My favourite places in the French Riviera 🇫🇷

The Côte d’Azur is one of those places that feels unreal no matter how many times you visit. Think crystal-clear water, pastel towns, long lunches, and that effortless French lifestyle.

We based ourselves in Villefranche-sur-Mer, and honestly, it was the perfect decision. Everything is so close — 15 minutes to Monaco and Nice, 10 minutes to Èze, and about an hour to Cannes and Antibes. Plus, Villefranche itself is stunning — colorful, calm, and right by the sea.

Èze – my favourite village

Èze is probably my favourite place on the entire Riviera. It’s a tiny medieval village sitting high above the sea between Nice and Monaco, and it feels like stepping into another world.

You can wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, explore little boutiques, visit the exotic gardens, and just take in the views — they’re insane.

I had lunch at Les Remparts inside the iconic Château de la Chèvre d'Or. Even if you don’t stay there, go for a drink — the terrace views are unreal. You can also go all out with a Michelin-star dinner here, which is such a special experience.

You can also hike the famous Nietzsche Path from the seaside up to Èze — it’s a bit challenging but the views along the way make it absolutely worth it.

Èze, French Riviera

Cap Ferrat – coastal walks & beach days

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a must. It’s peaceful, elegant, and full of the most beautiful swimming spots.

The highlight is Paloma Beach — easily one of the prettiest beaches on the Riviera. One of my favourite things here is walking along the coastal path. It takes around an hour, and every step is worth it. You’ll find hidden coves, crystal-clear water, and quiet places to swim. Cap Ferrat just feels magical.

Cap Ferrat, French Riviera

Saint-Paul-de-Vence – art & charm

Saint-Paul-de-Vence is another beautiful medieval town located between Nice and Cannes.

It’s known for its art scene, so you’ll find galleries everywhere. The whole village feels very authentic and less touristy than some other spots. Walk along the old walls, get lost in the tiny streets, and stop for a slow lunch — it’s the perfect relaxed afternoon.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence, French Riviera

Villefranche-sur-Mer – the perfect base

Villefranche-sur-Mer is where we stayed, and I would choose it again without hesitation. It’s smaller and quieter than Nice, but still has everything — a beautiful beach, colorful buildings, cute restaurants, and a very relaxed vibe.

It’s perfect for evening walks, grabbing a drink by the harbor, and just enjoying the Riviera lifestyle without the crowds.

Villefranche-sur-Mer, French Riviera

Nice – city vibes & beach life

Le Plongeoir

Nice is one of those places where you can do everything in one day — beach, city, views, and amazing food.

Start your day with a walk along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, then head into the old town (Vieux Nice), which is full of colorful streets, local markets, and cute little cafés. It’s the kind of place where you just wander without a plan and always find something beautiful.

For one of the best views over the city, go up to the Colline du Château (often called the Grand Panorama of Nice). From there, you get that famous postcard view of the coastline and the turquoise water — definitely worth it, especially around sunset.

And of course, you’ve probably seen Le Plongeoir all over Instagram — it’s that insane restaurant set on a rock above the sea. It’s not just about the views (which are unreal), the whole experience feels very unique. Even if you don’t go for a full dinner, it’s such a special spot for drinks or a sunset moment and really captures that French Riviera vibe perfectly.

Nice, French Riviera

Monaco – luxury & iconic views

Monaco is completely different from the rest of the Riviera — more modern, more luxury, and very glamorous.

Things to do:

• Visit the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo

• Walk around the harbor and see the yachts

• Explore the old town (Monaco-Ville) and the Prince’s Palace

• Watch the sunset from different viewpoints

We had dinner at Riviera Restaurant, right on the border with France, and the views over Monaco were unreal. Definitely one of the highlights of the trip.

Monaco

Antibes – relaxed & authentic

Antibes has a completely different energy compared to places like Cannes or Monaco — it feels more local, more relaxed, and a bit more authentic.

The old town is the highlight, with its narrow streets, pastel buildings, and little shops everywhere. It’s perfect for just walking around slowly, stopping for a coffee, and taking it all in. One of my favorite things to do is walk along the ramparts by the sea — the views are stunning, especially when the waves hit the rocks.

The port is also worth visiting, especially Port Vauban, where you’ll see everything from small boats to some of the biggest yachts on the Riviera. It’s such a nice contrast with the old town.

If you’re there in the morning, don’t miss the Marché Provençal — it’s full of fresh food, flowers, and that classic South of France vibe.

For something cultural, you can visit the Picasso Museum Antibes, which is set inside a historic castle overlooking the sea — even if you’re not big on museums, the location alone makes it worth it.

Antibes is the kind of place where you don’t need a plan — just walk, explore, and enjoy the atmosphere.

Cannes – glamour & beach clubs

Cannes is all about that glamorous Riviera lifestyle. Walk along La Croisette, relax at one of the beach clubs, and visit the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. For the best views, head up to Le Suquet (the old town) — it’s quieter and gives you a completely different perspective of Cannes.

Cannes, French Riviera

Final thoughts

The French Riviera is one of those places where every stop feels special, but having a good base like Villefranche-sur-Mer makes the whole experience even better.

If I had to choose favourites: Èze for the views, Cap Ferrat for swimming, and Monaco for that iconic, luxury vibe.

It’s the kind of trip you’ll want to repeat again and again 🤍