Few coastlines exude luxury like the French Riviera. The glamourous seaside region has long been a destination for the rich and famous. And while French Riviera brings to mind cities like Nice and Cannes, its best kept secret is the charming villages sprinkled along the coast. Also known as the Côte d’Azur, France’s Mediterranean coast is a remarkable stretch of beauty and variety, extending from Saint Tropez with its mega yachts and exclusive night scene all the way past Cannes, Nice, and Monaco to the colorful city of Menton perched on the Italian border. Keep reading for best towns and places to visit along the French Riviera!
Saint-Tropez
A small town with a big name, Saint-Tropez is the epitome of luxury and the most famous town along the Côte d’Azur. Giant yachts fill the harbor and exclusive beach clubs line the famed sandy shores of Pampelonne. In the summer months, star-studded visitors from around the world flock to the seaside town to bask in its beauty and celebrated nightlife. Once a humble fishing village and military stronghold, Bridgette Bardot put the town on the map in the mid-1950s with her starring role in And God Created Women, which gave the world a peek of Saint-Tropez’s beauty. Soak up the sun lounging at the private beach clubs of Pampelonne. Stroll the town’s charming cobblestone streets of La Ponche (Old Town) and admire the yachts of Vieux Port (Old Port). Shop the morning Marché in Places des Lices. And enjoy the energetic late-night scene. Saint-Tropez is fabulous town for those looking for an upscale and lively getaway. Learn more about Saint-Tropez in the Ultimate Saint-Tropez Travel Guide.
Antibes
Founded in 4th century BC, the walled city of Antibes lies just outside of Cannes and is rich in history. Originating as the Greek colony of Antipolis, and later incorporated into the Roman Republic, Antibes has existed for millennia along important trade routes, making it a treasure trove of ancient artifacts. Over the years, many artists have been drawn to Antibes for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Both Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald frequented Antibes, and Pablo Picasso resided in Chateau Grimaldi, which now houses the Musée Picasso with an extensive collection of his works. You don’t have to be a history aficionado to enjoy Antibes today. The old town is a maze of charming streets and open squares lined with delicious restaurants. Cap d’Antibes is home to an impressive 48 different beaches, including the top-rated Plage de la Salis right in Antibes. And if you’re looking for an unforgettable stay, check out the legendary Hôtel du Cap-Eden Roc. Learn more about Antibes and read the 14 Best Things to do in Antibes.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is just a short drive outside Nice, yet it feels a world away. The quiet port town has claim to a beautifully secluded peninsula, surrounded on all sides by the deep blues of the Mediterranean. Cap Ferrat has attracted high profile royalty, musicians, and politicians for over a century. Behind locked gates and carefully planted greenery are some of the most expensive villas in the world. The Rolling Stones and tech billionaires are just a few of the well-connected individuals that have resided here over the years. Stay at the iconic Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, which has hosted the likes of Elizabeth Taylor and Winston Churchill. The property, now a Four Seasons resort, is perched on the edge of the peninsula with enviable views and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Lounge at the famous Paloma Beach Club or Plage de Passable, which faces Villefranche-sur-Mer. Walk the coastal loop trail, Sentier du Littoral and lose yourself in the nine gardens of the opulent historic villa, Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. At the end of a long day, enjoy a bottle of wine and a seabass along the harbor. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a true gem along the French Riviera. To learn more about Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, read the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Travel Guide.
Menton
Between the Italian border and Monaco lies the colorful town of Menton. Smaller than Nice and Monaco but larger than towns like Èze and Villefranche-sur-Mer, Menton gives visitors a village feel while being closer in size to a small city. Menton is known as the citrus capital of the world and every February the Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival) takes over the town to celebrate its intensely flavored lemons. The themed carnival lasts several days and uses lemons and oranges are used to create an array of impressive exhibits. Menton’s charm doesn’t stop with its love for lemons. The town features a plethora of beautiful gardens, the Jean Cocteau Museum, a Casino, and public and private beaches. Menton fell under of the rule of the Princes of Monaco in 1346 and was eventually annexed to France during the French Revolution. With something for everyone, Menton is one of the French Riviera’s best kept secrets.
Èze
The charming Medieval village is perched high above the Mediterranean and is famous for its awesome architecture and breathtaking views. Èze is meticulously built into the cliffs above the sea and offers sweeping views of the coastal region. And while the area was first populated circa 2000 BC, the village dates back to middle ages. The yellow Chapelle de la Sainte Croix marks the top of the town as the oldest structure built in the 1300s. Èze is made up of two parts. The hilltop village of Èze and the modern coastal town of Èze-bord-de-Mer. These two areas are connected by Nietzsche Path, a steep two-mile trail made famous by German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche in the 1880s. The old town features several upscale hotels with Michelin-recognized restaurants. Château de la Chèvre d’Or is home to some of the best views in Èze and a Michelin two-starred restaurant. Château Eza is another luxury hotel with excellent views and dining. Wander the winding cobblestone streets, indulge in delicious meals with unparalleled views, and be transported back in time in the unique village.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Nestled between the bustling cities of Nice and Monte Carlo is the quaint village Villefranche-sur-Mer. The picture-perfect harbor is regarded as one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean and the unassuming seaside village boasts colorful façades and inviting cafes. Since ancient times, the town has been an important military location due to the notable depth of the harbor. Several military fortresses remain as landmarks including Fort du Mont Alban and the Citadelle Saint-Elme, which now houses the town hall, theater, and museums. Nowadays, Villefranche-sur-Mer embraces the easy-going lifestyle and caters to visitors looking for a quiet and authentic getaway. The town is also home to the Institut de Français, an immersive French language school for adults. Wander the enchanting narrow streets of Old Town; Swim along Plage de la Marinière; Marvel at the murals by Jean Cocteau in the Chapelle de Saint-Pierre; And soak up the beauty of one of the most picturesque towns along the French Riviera.
