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Sun-kissed beaches, glittering blue waters, charming hilltop villages, and a touch of old-world glamour—welcome to the Côte d’Azur, one of the most dazzling destinations in the world! Whether you’re sipping rosé on a yacht, exploring medieval streets, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean vibes, this slice of the French Riviera has something for everyone. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with stunning scenery, rich culture, and, of course, a little luxury. Here’s how to make the most of your time in this sun-drenched paradise!

How Long to Stay

For a well-rounded trip to the Côte d’Azur, plan to stay at least 5 to 7 days. This allows you enough time to explore Nice, take day trips to nearby towns, and enjoy the stunning beaches and cultural sites. If you have more time, a 7 to 10-day stay will let you dive deeper into the region, exploring hidden gems and lesser-known villages along the coast.

Where to Stay: Nice as Your Base

Nice is the ideal central hub for exploring the Côte d’Azur. The city offers a fantastic blend of stunning seaside views, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks. It also boasts excellent transportation links, making day trips to surrounding areas easy. Some recommended places to stay in Nice include:

• Hotel Negresco – An iconic luxury hotel with a rich history.
• Le Meridien Nice – Perfect for those looking for modern amenities with beachfront access.
• Hôtel La Pérouse – A boutique hotel with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Nearby Places to Visit

Using Nice as your base, you can easily explore several charming destinations along the Riviera. Here are some must-visit locations:

2. Cannes

Famous for its annual Cannes Film Festival, this city is synonymous with luxury and elegance. Things to do:

• Walk along La Croisette, the famous seaside promenade lined with designer boutiques.
• Explore the historic Le Suquet district for a taste of old-world charm.
• Relax on the beautiful sandy beaches, some of the best along the Riviera.

3. Antibes & Juan-les-Pins

A short drive from Nice, Antibes combines history with a vibrant arts scene, while Juan-les-Pins offers a lively nightlife. Things to do:

• Visit the Picasso Museum, housed in a historic château.
• Wander through the Old Town and its charming markets.
• Enjoy the beaches and beach clubs of Juan-les-Pins.

4. Eze

A medieval hilltop village offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Things to do:

• Explore the Jardin Exotique, filled with exotic plants and panoramic vistas.
• Visit the Fragonard Perfume Factory to learn about traditional perfume-making.
• Stroll through the cobbled streets, lined with artisan shops and galleries.

5. Saint-Tropez

A bit farther from Nice, Saint-Tropez is synonymous with glamour, beach clubs, and a laid-back coastal vibe. Things to do:

• Spend a day at Pampelonne Beach, known for its chic beach clubs.
• Visit the Citadel of Saint-Tropez, offering incredible views and historical insights.
• Stroll through the charming Old Port, filled with luxury yachts and lively cafés.

6. Menton

Things to Do in the Côte d’Azur

Beyond exploring individual towns, here are some overall experiences you shouldn’t miss:

• Savor the Local Cuisine – Try socca (a chickpea pancake) in Nice, bouillabaisse in Marseille, and fresh seafood along the coast.
• Take a Boat Tour – See the Riviera from the water, with boat trips to Îles de Lérins or along the stunning coastline.
• Wine Tasting in Provence – The nearby Provence region is known for its rosé wines and picturesque vineyards.
• Hiking & Outdoor Adventures – The Sentier du Littoral offers breathtaking coastal hikes, while the Gorges du Verdon is great for kayaking and scenic drives.
• Relax at Exclusive Beach Clubs – Lounge in style at famous beach clubs like Le Club 55 in Saint-Tropez, Paloma Beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, or Plage Beau Rivage in Nice for the ultimate Riviera experience.

7-Day Itinerary for the Côte d’Azur

Make the most of your trip with this carefully curated itinerary:

Day 2: Monaco & Menton

• Take a morning train to Monaco and visit the Prince’s Palace and Casino de Monte-Carlo.
• Stroll through the Exotic Garden and admire the sea views.
• Head to Menton in the afternoon, known for its pastel-colored buildings and beautiful gardens.
• Walk along the Promenade du Soleil and explore the Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange.

Day 3: Cannes & Îles de Lérins

• Spend the morning in Cannes, strolling along La Croisette and visiting Le Suquet.
• Take a short ferry ride to Îles de Lérins, where you can relax on secluded beaches and visit the Fort Royal.
• Return to Cannes for dinner at a seaside restaurant.

Day 4: Antibes & Juan-les-Pins

• Visit the Picasso Museum and explore the historic Old Town in Antibes.
• Spend the afternoon at one of Juan-les-Pins’ chic beach clubs.
• Enjoy the lively nightlife of Juan-les-Pins before returning to Nice.

Day 5: Eze & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

• Take a scenic drive to Eze, a medieval hilltop village with stunning views.
• Visit the Jardin Exotique and the Fragonard Perfume Factory.
• Continue to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and relax at Paloma Beach.
• Visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a stunning mansion with gardens.

Day 6: Saint-Tropez & Beach Clubs

• Drive or take a ferry to Saint-Tropez, famous for its glamorous atmosphere.
• Spend the day at Pampelonne Beach, lounging at Le Club 55 or another exclusive beach club.
• Explore the Old Port and visit the Citadel of Saint-Tropez.
• Enjoy a sunset dinner at a waterfront restaurant.

Day 7: Leisurely Day in Nice & Departure

• Visit the Matisse Museum or Marc Chagall Museum for a dose of art.
• Enjoy one last stroll through the Old Town and pick up souvenirs.
• Relax at Plage Beau Rivage, one of Nice’s best beach clubs.
• Depart for your next destination.

Final Thoughts

The Côte d’Azur is a dream destination filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and luxurious charm. Whether you’re exploring medieval villages, lounging on pristine beaches, or indulging in world-class cuisine, this stunning region of France will leave you enchanted. Plan your stay wisely, take in the beauty of the Mediterranean, and enjoy all that the French Riviera has to offer!