Choose from 48 Fun Things to Do in French Riviera
ShowingFilter 1-20 of 48 listings.
Grasse Fragonard Perfumery (Parfumerie Fragonard)
As important to French culture as Paris and paté, the art of perfume is on display at the Fragonard perfumery in Grasse, one of the oldest-running perfumeries in France. Dating to 1926 and featuring plenty of artifacts from the original distillery, the historic factory functions as a modern artisanal perfume factory deeply rooted in tradition.
The Basics
A free Fragonard factory guided tour takes you through the history and distilling process of perfume over the course of 30 minutes, concluding in a gift shop where Fragonard perfumes and soaps are available for sale—otherwise only available at Fragonard boutiques and through mail order. Because of its small size, the perfumery is best visited as part of a guided tour of the French Riviera that includes transportation through the region’s windy roads.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most perfumery tour guides speak English.
- This attraction is not suitable for those with scent sensitivities.
- The perfume factory makes an ideal day trip or half-day trip from Cannes, Nice, or Monaco.
- Fragonard has additional museum and factory locations in Eze and Paris, though the Grasse location is the original.
How to Get There
Grasse is located roughly 30 minutes from Cannes and is easily accessed by road, with plenty of parking at the perfumery. To arrive by public transport, catch the 881100 train on SNCF from Cannes to Grasse, which runs twice per hour, and then walk or grab a taxi for the remaining three-fourths of a mile (1.2 kilometers).
When to Get There
The perfumery is open from 9am to 6pm, daily. Arrive in time to spend 30 minutes to an hour exploring the space.
Sweet Smells
Famous for its scents, Grasse is known as the perfume capital of France. Its central location makes it a popular stop on tours of Provence and the Cote d'Azur.
Address: 20 Boulevard Fragonard, Grasse 06130, France
Admission: Free
From $ 57
Château St Martin
Château St Martin is a former 12th-century Knights Templar fortress on the French Riviera that is now a prestigious five-star guest property. This historic building sits amid acres of natural beauty and affords its guests some spectacular views across the Côte d’Azur.
The château itself blends perfectly with its environment, with red and green vines clinging to the walls for most of the year. The building was restored by the contemporary architect, Luc Svetchine, and decorated by the property’s owner, Maja Oetker. Aubusson and Gobelins tapestries, 18th century pendulums, plus Persian and Turkish carpets combine to make the château a fascinating place to simply wander around.
Château St Martin offers some dramatic and varied views from all angles and the grounds’ perfectly-maintained gardens provide a sense of peace and tranquillity. With 46 classically designed rooms, incredible views, and a distinctly sophisticated and refined atmosphere, Chateau St Martin is one of those truly unique places to spend the night.
Practical Info
Overlooking Vence, between Nice and Cannes, Château St Martin is easily accessible by road. Be sure to book ahead!
Address: 2490 Avenue des Templiers, Vence 06140, France
From $ 182
Cath edrale de Monaco (Monaco Cathedral)
Visitors to Europe (and to France in particular) may be fatigued from seeing so many churches, even the fantastic ones, so at first glance, the relatively humble facade of the Monaco Cathedral may not rouse much excitement. But it's worth a visit for a variety of reasons.
First is its history. Generally referred to as the Cathédrale de Monaco, its official name is Cathédrale Notre-Dame-Immaculée, but it is also known as the Saint Nicholas Cathedral because of the original site on which the church was built, which was dedicated to Saint Nicholas in the 13th century. There are remnants of 15th-century architecture here, as well as a mish-mash of other styles.
The church is also notable for its relatively recent history, as this is where Grace Kelly married Prince Ranier III in 1956 and also the couple’s final resting place; you can visit their tombs and even leave flowers if you wish. All events for the Monaco royalty are held here, and it is the epicenter of national religious holidays.
The summer masses are also a reason to visit, as this is when the Children’s Choir of Monaco sings the hymns. Open to the faithful as well as non-religious visitors, it's quite an experience and a unique chance to see what local life is like in such a dream-like place.
Practical Info
Regular admission outside of religious services is free, and the church is open from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., or 6 p.m. in winter. Mass takes place daily, at 8 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday and Saturday, as well as 8:30 a.m. on Monday and Friday. Mass occurs twice every Sunday, at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
Address: 4 Rue Colonel Bellando de Castro, Monaco
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., or 6 p.m. in winter.
From $ 68
Gourdon
Located in the south of France by the Loup River, the beautifully preserved village of Gourdon looks all the way out to the Cote d’Azur from its mountaintop peak. A place of refuge and defense during medieval times, the feudal village is surrounded by thick ramparts and has only one entrance, the Roman Gate, which leads onto Gourdon’s medieval stone house-lined main street, rue de Major. Here, look out for Maison d’Anglars at No. 17, which dates back to the 13th century.
Chateau de Gourdon, a historic monument since 1971, is a popular spot in Gourdon. The castle’s 17th-century gardens were designed by André Le Nôtre, who was also responsible for the Palace of Versailles’ famous gardens. At the top of the village sits a beautiful square revealing the huge church of St Pierre. For a perfect view of Gourdon’s golden-stoned ramparts, make sure to stop at the lookout point right before you enter the village.
Practical Info
The village of Gourdon is at the back of Valbonne, about a 45-minute drive from Antibes. The road up the mountainside to Gourdon is bendy, but the views are worth it.
Address: Gourdon, France
From $ 145
Ile Saint-Marguerite
A 20-minute ferry ride across the waters of the Mediterranean Sea transports travelers from the high-class commotion of Cannes to the tranquil Ile Saint-Marguerite, a small island with more pine trees than people. Bring your walking shoes and your love for the great outdoors for the perfect day trip away from it all.
The Basics
Despite being the largest of the Lérins Islands, Ile Saint-Marguerite (Ile Sainte-Marguerite) is still petite. Visit on a private cruise from Cannes or on a day trip by ferry. Once on the island, it’s possible to hike a trail circumnavigating the island through eucalyptus groves and past stunning French Riviera views in just 2.5 hours, stopping to picnic while overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Other island highlights include the famous Fort Royal, which once imprisoned the “Man in the Iron Mask” and is attached to the small Maritime Museum (Musee de la Mer) featuring historical shipwreck artifacts.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dress for the outdoors, with plenty of sun protection in the summer.
- Pack a swimsuit if you plan to swim in the popular Plateau du Milieu water recreation area or other beaches.
- Food options are limited; plan ahead and pack a picnic.
- Ile Saint-Marguerite is a kid-friendly attraction perfect for outdoor play.
- Luxury private yacht tours offer an overview of the island and unbeatable views.
How to Get There
Ile Saint-Marguerite is only accessible by ferry. A number of private ferry operators leave out of Cannes and Juan-les-Pins regularly, but it’s best to book your ticket in advance to guarantee your spot, as boats can fill quickly in summer.
When to Get There
Arrive early in the morning for the coolest weather and the fewest crowds. As with other parts of France, Ile Saint-Marguerite is most popular during the peak travel season from mid-June through August, when large crowds and sunshine are the norm.
Nearby Attractions
Make a full day of exploring the Lérins Islands and other Cote d'Azur attractions by booking a tour that includes locations like the neighboring Ile Saint-Honorat, Monaco, and Antibes.
Address: Cannes 06400, France
From $ 17
Antibes Port Vauban
The largest marina in Europe, with over 100 berths, Antibes’ ritzy Port Vauban is one of the most popular spots for yachts on the French Riviera. Originally a natural port run by everyone from the ancient Greeks to the Romans and the Barbarians, it wasn’t until the 15th century that the site was given adequate protection from raiders, when Louis XIV ordered military engineer Seigneur de Vauban to fortify the marina.
Port Vauban is home to the Yacht Club d’Antibes and has its own private heli-pad for all those superyacht owners like Roman Abramovich. Berths at Port Vauban don’t come cheap—each
spot costs between 1 and 4 million euros. Each spring, the marina hosts the Antibes Yacht Show, which attracts more than 15,000 visitors every year.
Just behind the archway to Antibes’ Old Town on the western edge of the marina is a lively market that is open every day except Monday. After checking out all the glittering yachts, the market serves as a great place to order all kinds of Provençal cheeses and fruits, and to stop and enjoy a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants.
Practical Info
Antibes has a train station on the main Nice-Cannes line, from which the marina is about a minute’s walk away.
Address: Antibes, France
From $ 76
Eze
With its twisting cobblestone lanes, jumble of medieval houses, and shady courtyards lined with traditional cafés, Eze is a tranquil village high above the glamorous resorts and golden beaches of the Cote d’Azur. The hilltop town is undeniably picturesque, affording panoramic views over the Mediterranean, and its timeless charm has made it a firm favorite on French Riviera itineraries.
The Basics
Eze’s tiny size means it’s often relegated to a pit stop for those heading east to Monaco or west to Cannes and St.-Tropez, but the medieval village can also make a quieter base to explore the glitzy resorts along the coast. A full- or half-day tour from Nice, Cannes, or Monte Carlo often includes nearby villages such as St.-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Menton, or La Turbie.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring comfortable shoes to navigate the steep lanes and cobblestones of the Old Town.
- Eze’s medieval streets can sometimes be a challenge for wheelchair users, so it’s best to check ahead for wheelchair access to hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
How to Get to Eze
Eze is located at the eastern tip of the French Riviera and close to the France-Monaco border. Its closest airport is in Nice, just 7 miles (11 kilometers) away, roughly 30 minutes by car, with most tours driving along the famous Corniche coastal road.
When to Get There
Celebrities, jet setters, and sun-seekers flock to the French Riviera in spring and summer, and Eze sees a steady stream of tour groups passing through. To avoid the crowds, get there early or stick around after the tour buses have left. Those wanting to soak up the atmosphere of popular events like the Cannes Film Festival or the Monaco Grand Prix will find Eze a good place to escape the masses, although be aware that accommodation, flight, and tour prices can soar during these busy months. Out of season, Eze is equally charming, but check ahead to ensure that hotels and attractions are open.
A Sightseeing Tour of Eze
Eze’s principal attraction is its attractive Old Town, centered around the majestic ruins of a 12th-century castle, and it’s easy to explore on foot. After admiring the medieval architecture, stroll around the Jardin Exotique and admire the exotic blooms of the stunning gardens, hike down to the beaches of Eze-Sur-Mer, or take a tour of the famous Fragonard perfume factory.
Address: Eze 06360, France
Admission: Free
From $ 115
Chagall Museum (Mus ee National Marc Chagall)
The Musée National Marc Chagall houses the largest public collection of of the Russian-born artist's seminal paintings of Old Testament scenes. Be sure to peek through a plate-glass window across a reflecting pond to view a mosaic of the rose window at Metz Cathedral. Chagall (1887 – 1985) is buried in St-Paul de Vence, a town not far from Nice.
The main hall contains 12 huge interpretations (1954 - 67) of stories from Genesis and Exodus. In an antechamber, an unusual mosaic of Elijah in his fiery chariot, surrounded by signs of the zodiac, is viewed through a plate-glass window and reflected in a small pond. Five paintings based on the Song of Songs (1960s) form the most startling series, an explosion of passionate red (in contrast to the sea greens, deep purples and blues of the main room) dedicated to his wife Vava.
The main hall contains 12 huge interpretations (1954 - 67) of stories from Genesis and Exodus. In an antechamber, an unusual mosaic of Elijah in his fiery chariot, surrounded by signs of the zodiac, is viewed through a plate-glass window and reflected in a small pond. Five paintings based on the Song of Songs (1960s) form the most startling series, an explosion of passionate red (in contrast to the sea greens, deep purples and blues of the main room) dedicated to his wife Vava.
Practical Info
Transit: Catch bus 15 or 22 up to the hills of Cimiez, alight at stop Musee Chagall or walk following the signs from av de l'Olivetto.
Address: 4 av Docteur Ménard, Arenes 06000, France
Hours: May - Oct: 10am - 6pm, Nov - Apr: 10am - 5pm. Closed Tuesdays, Jan 1, May 1 and Dec 25
Admission: € 7.50
From $ 25
Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
Rising up over the eastern end of Quai des États-Unis, the 300-foot Castle Hill (Colline du Château) affords fantastic views over the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Old Town of Vieux Nice, the Baie des Anges, and the glittering Côte d’Azur.
The Basics
With steps, roads, a train, and an elevator, there are myriad ways to access this lookout. Once summited, you can explore the hill’s green spaces, shady respites, and 18th-century artificial waterfall.
Offering the best views in town, it’s no surprise that a visit to Castle Hill is a popular inclusion on sightseeing tours of Nice. Opt for a walking tour and enjoy a leisurely stroll up to the hilltop lookout point; join an e-bike tour and glide up the hill before continuing along the French Riviera coast; or visit as part of a Nice day trip from Villefranche-sur-Mer or Monaco.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is no entrance fee to visit Castle Hill and the elevator is free of charge.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore Nice on foot—it’s full of hills, cobblestone streets, and steps.
- At the top of the hill are a few small cafés where you can purchase a drink or snack. For lunch, it’s best to pack a picnic.
- Wheelchair access to Le Château is available via the elevator. Once at the top, you can follow the accessible trails around the park and to the viewpoints.
How to Get to There
To arrive on foot, take the steps at the eastern end of the Quai des États-Unis up the hill to Le Château. If you prefer not to walk, there is also an elevator (ascenseur du Château), or you can take a ride on the Petit Train tourist train.
When to Get There
The hilltop of Le Château can get busy, especially in peak season (July and August), and the most popular time is around lunchtime when locals bring a picnic to enjoy in the park. For the most impressive views, time your visit for sunrise or sunset, when the weather is cooler and there are thinner crowds.
A Walking Tour of Castle Hill
Despite its name, the last remnant of the 12th-century Château de Nice that once stood atop Castle Hill was torn down by Louis XIV in 1706. Today its last remnant is the Bellanda Tower (Tour Bellanda), now home to a naval museum (Musée Naval). Also on the hilltop is a cemetery as well as a scenic park with a man-made waterfall, ponds, a children’s playground, and plenty of picnic areas.
Address: Colline du Chateau, Nice 06000, France
Admission: Free
From $ 43
Castellane
Known by locals as the Gateway to Verdon Gorge, Castellane is home to four mountain passes and a popular that make it the ideal destination for hikers and wanderers looking to explore scenic trails and take in picturesque views.
The steep trek to Chapelle Notre Dame du Roc, which rises more than 900 meters above the Verdon, is one of Castellane’s most popular stops and one of the area’s most incredible overlooks. White water rafting on the roaring Verdon River tends to attract the more adventurous set and lovers of old-world architecture find the historic churches and ornate municipal buildings well worth the stop.
Practical Info
Castellane is accessible by road from Paris by following signs for Lyon towards Grenoble. Night buses leave from Paris every 30 minutes and trains leave from Nice four times per day.
Address: Castellane, France
From $ 115
Cours Saleya Flower Market (Marche aux Fleurs Cours Saleya)
Nice's Cours Saleya Flower Market is a veritable feast for the senses—floral fragrances rise in the air, vendors call out in French to mingling locals, and flower bouquets burst forth from every stall. Add the fresh produce market, sidewalk cafes, and weekly antiques fair, and it’s no wonder the market is a must while in Provence.
The Basics
A colorful twist on the classic French market, the Cours Saleya Flower Market (Marche aux Fleurs Cours Saleya) is in many ways the heart of everyday life in Nice. The market is split between its famous flower market selling bucketfuls of blooms on the western side and a food market brimming with spices, produce, pastries, and more on the eastern side.
Take it all in on a leisurely stroll, stopping to people-watch from one of the cafes and restaurants lining the edges, or join a Nice sightseeing tour or food tour for the benefit of the information provided by a local guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dress for the weather, with plenty of sun protection in summer.
- Bring cash, as most vendors do not accept credit cards.
- Expect large crowds during summer.
How to Get There
Right in the heart of Nice's Old Town (Vieux Nice) and only one street back from the Quai des Etats-Unis on the Promenade des Anglais, the Cours Saleya is impossible to miss during any stroll through the historic district. Though the area is mostly closed off to cars—making for a pleasant pedestrian experience—it can be accessed on the T1 line of the tram, with the closest stop at Opéra Vieille Ville.
When to Get There
Visit between 6am and 5:30pm to see the market at its finest. Early morning visits let travelers see the vendors setting up before the crowds arrive, while visitors in the evening will find the market plaza transformed into an outdoor dining area where farm-to-table food is the standard. The market is replaced by an antiques market on Mondays and is closed Sunday afternoons and public holidays.
Mediterranean Marketplaces
Though outdoor markets take place in just about every town on the French Riviera, France's National Council for the Culinary Arts ranks the Cours Saleya Market as one of the best in the country—this says a lot in a destination so famous for its food!
Address: Cours Saleya, Nice, France
Admission: Free
From $ 27
Fort du Mont Alban
For visitors to Nice, a stroll up to the top of Castle Hill offers extraordinary views of the city from the Old Town straight on to the airport. And with such beautiful weather being the norm, getting a bird's eye view of the Cote d'Azur can be addictive! For those who want to see even more from up high, Fort du Mont Alban is a must.
Built in the mid-1500s for military defense, Fort du Mont Alban is located close to Nice in Mont Boron Park, just outside of Col-de-Villefranche. Although it suffered some damage in WWII, the fort is in excellent condition and was declared a national monument in the early 20th century.
While tours of the fort are available only by appointment, the grounds are open to the public and free to enter. From the top there are sweeping views from Italy to Antibes – and after a rain, when the skies are clear, those with binoculars can even see Corsica!
Practical Info
Using public transport, take the Lignes d'Azur Line14 bus from Nice to the Mont Boron “Chemin duFort” stop, then enter the park and climb to the top using the trails. If driving, take the Corniche Andre de Joly (M6007) to the Route Forrestiere du Mont Boron; it is possible to drive to the top using this road.
Address: Chemin du Fort du Mont Alban, Nice, France
From $ 760
Antibes
Sixteenth-century ramparts and winding cobbled streets on the French Riviera—welcome to Antibes! A Mediterranean city with quite the history, Antibes was originally known as Antipolis, founded by the Ancient Greeks in 5 B.C. Then came the Romans, who renamed the city Antiboul and erected a theater big enough for 10,000 people. Barbarians and disrepair came next, until the area’s famous ramparts were ordered by Louis XIV, safeguarding Antibes from raiders and pirates who trawled the Mediterranean Sea.
The first tourists arrived to Cap d’Antibes in the 1880s, and the city and its adjacent resort town of Juan les Pins quickly became a summer playground for Europe’s elite, beloved by Golden Age stars like Hemingway and Fitzgerald. Picasso also spent six months living and painting in Antibes, and today you can see his works from that period at Antibes’ Picasso Museum in the Chateau Grimaldi.
Now a town of 80,000, Antibes stretches deep into the hills. It’s home to the largest marina in the Mediterranean and is a city of superyachts and their owners, who relax in the shaded mansions of Cap d’Antibes. Famous for its restaurants and surrounding beaches, Antibes’ Old Town also makes for a beautiful wander. Every morning, there’s a market by the marina where locals and tourists seek out fresh food from the region.
Practical Info
Antibes has a train station on the main Nice-Cannes line. The 200 and 250 express bus services also run between Cannes, Antibes and Nice.
Address: Antibes, France
From $ 76
Cannes Cruise Port
Enjoying a picturesque position on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, the Cannes cruise port is a gateway to the cinematic glamour of Cannes and the rest of the beautiful French Riviera. Whether you're exploring the pretty town of Cannes or heading for glitzy enclaves such as Monte Carlo, St Tropez, or Eze, disembarking your cruise ship at the Cannes port provides a wealth of shore excursion options.
The Basics
If you're visiting outside of Cannes Film Festival, famed throughout France, Europe, and the world, Cannes is still a rewarding place to spend the day. Cannes city tours allow cruisers to enjoy a taste of Hollywood glamour at the Film Festival Palace (Palais des Festivals), where it's possible to pose on the famous red carpet; stroll the Boulevard de la Croisette to gaze into the windows of designer boutiques; and get lost in Le Suquet, the cityís historic center.
Travelers short on time can take advantage of Cannes shore excursions that head further afield to showcase the entire French Riviera. Typically covered are the medieval village of Eze, which boasts cobbled streets, the Fragonard perfume factory, and views of the Cote d'Azur, and Monaco, whose delights include the Princeís Palace, Monaco Cathedral, and the affluent casino of Monte Carlo. Other Cannes excursions tick off historic Antibes, where multi-million dollar yachts dock in Billionaire's Quay; the charming ProvenÁal village of St Paul de Vence; Grasse, whose lavender fields burst into bloom during summer; and Nice, whose Old Town and Cimiez neighborhood ooze tradition.
How to Get to Cannes from Cannes Cruise Port
Cruise ships dock in the bay before small tenders ferry passengers to Le Vieux Port (the Old Port). From here it's a short walk to the city center, where youíll find the Quai Laubeuf OUIBUS bus station and the Marine Railway Station (Gare Maritime). The train can be taken to Monaco.
Port Information
French is the main language in Cannes, but due to an annual influx of tourists for the film festival, many locals speak English. The currency is the euro, and many ATMs service the cruise port.
The Basics
If you're visiting outside of Cannes Film Festival, famed throughout France, Europe, and the world, Cannes is still a rewarding place to spend the day. Cannes city tours allow cruisers to enjoy a taste of Hollywood glamour at the Film Festival Palace (Palais des Festivals), where it's possible to pose on the famous red carpet; stroll the Boulevard de la Croisette to gaze into the windows of designer boutiques; and get lost in Le Suquet, the cityís historic center.
Travelers short on time can take advantage of Cannes shore excursions that head further afield to showcase the entire French Riviera. Typically covered are the medieval village of Eze, which boasts cobbled streets, the Fragonard perfume factory, and views of the Cote d'Azur, and Monaco, whose delights include the Princeís Palace, Monaco Cathedral, and the affluent casino of Monte Carlo. Other Cannes excursions tick off historic Antibes, where multi-million dollar yachts dock in Billionaire's Quay; the charming ProvenÁal village of St Paul de Vence; Grasse, whose lavender fields burst into bloom during summer; and Nice, whose Old Town and Cimiez neighborhood ooze tradition.
- Nearly all shore excursions include pickup and drop-off at Cannes cruise port.
- Cannes shore excursion tours generally range from five to nine hours including transportation times.
- Private tours allow you to customize your itinerary and handpick French Riviera highlights.
How to Get to Cannes from Cannes Cruise Port
Cruise ships dock in the bay before small tenders ferry passengers to Le Vieux Port (the Old Port). From here it's a short walk to the city center, where youíll find the Quai Laubeuf OUIBUS bus station and the Marine Railway Station (Gare Maritime). The train can be taken to Monaco.
Port Information
French is the main language in Cannes, but due to an annual influx of tourists for the film festival, many locals speak English. The currency is the euro, and many ATMs service the cruise port.
Address: Services Plaisance et Commerce, Port de Cannes, Cannes, Cote d'Azur 06400, France
From $ 60
La Croisette Boulevard
The beating heart of Cannes, La Croisette is an oceanfront boulevard lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and thronged with both vacationers and glamorous locals. Whether you’re stopping for lunch, dinner, or people-watching as you walk along, a stroll along this iconic street is a must-do for Cannes visitors.
The Basics
Running for a mile (2 kilometers) along Cannes’ famously beautiful seafront, La Croisette is so important to the French people that it’s listed on the cultural heritage register. Shaded with palm trees and home to many top hotels and designer stores, the boulevard is a must-visit destination for guided tours of Cannes. At the western end of the street, you’ll find the old port (vieux port), home to fishing boats and glitzy yachts, while to the east you can walk to Port Palm Beach.
Things to Know Before You Go
- La Plage du Casino just off La Croisette boulevard is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming.
- The street is lined with cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs, as well as the famous Cannes Casino.
- Head to the Palais des Festivals for your red carpet moment at the famous home of the Cannes Film Festival.
How to Get There
La Croisette Boulevard is in the center of Cannes, in the South of France. Guided tours visit the area frequently, and it’s easy to get here on foot from other parts of the city. Paid parking is available nearby.
When to Get There
A public space, La Croisette Boulevard is open 24 hours a day. One of the most popular times to visit is during the Cannes Film Festival, held every May when visitors try to spot the movie stars who come to town to promote their films.
Stop Off at La Malmaison Museum
Once one of La Croisette’s chicest hotels, La Malmaison (part of the former Grand Hotel) is now an art gallery dedicated to works from the 20th and 21st centuries. Past exhibitions have featured the works of Picasso, Matisse, and Joan Miro, so modern art enthusiasts are sure to be pleased by the paintings and sculptures on display.
Address: Boulevard de la Croisette, Cannes 06400, France
From $ 35
Château Font du Broc
Built on the Var heights between Esterel and the Gulf of St Tropez, the Château Font du Broc is set amid lush vegetation overlooking the sea. The grounds of this impressive wine farm are sprawled out over 250 acres that encompass vineyards and olive trees – and even an Olympic-sized arena for horses.
Producing both wine and olive oil, the owner of Château Font du Broc, Sylvain Massa, insists on organic and traditional farming methods and restricts the volume of wine produced in order to ensure its quality.
Although the beautiful surroundings and the building’s architecture are high points for some visitors to Château Font du Broc, for others it’s simply all about sampling the delicious wines. The tasting room welcomes visitors and sampling the local vintage is positively encouraged, either on its own or with locally produced cheeses, meats and other delicacies.
Practical Info
Château Font du Broc is located near the medieval town of Les Arcs sur Argens in the Var – 80 kilometers from Nice – and is easily accessible by both car and train. It’s open from 10am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sundays. Guided tours are available for €10.
Address: Chemin de la Fontaine du Broc, Les Arcs 83460, France
Admission: €10
From $ 182
International Museum of Perfume
Set in Grasse, the
International Perfume Museum extensively covers the famous French
perfume industry, highlighting its significance through the ages. Exhibitions retrace the history of perfumes, soap and
cosmetics over the course of thousands of years. Split into various sections, the museum covers the history of the industry, manufacturing and marketing.
The museum is situated in the former Hugues-Aîné perfumery of the 19th century. The building was reopened in 2008 after refurbishment and now invites visitors to explore the prosperous history of french
parfumeries in the historic town of Grasse. The site is often visited on day trips out of Monaco.
Practical Info
Grasse is said to be the center for luxury fragrance in France, and subsequently has many attractions that are perfume-related.
Address: 2 Boulevard du Jeu de Ballon, Grasse 06130, France
From $ 145
Citadel of St-Tropez (Citadelle de St-Tropez)
Though St-Tropez is famous for its glamour and glitz, the city also has a rich and eventful past. The Citadel is a prime example, having been the town’s crown jewels since the 17th century, and one of the few monuments of its magnitude to still stand today on France’s southern coastline. In fact, The Citadel is one of the city’s most visited historical and cultural sites, both for its history and its panoramic views over the Bay. The Citadel was built between 1602 and 1608, based on the drawings of engineer Raymond de Bonnefons. The building, composed of a thick-walled hexagonal tower, a concealed interior courtyard, towers with cannon openings, and a bastioned outer wall, was used to defend the strategic port of St-Tropez, the most important strongholds between Antibes and Toulon for centuries. Its location on a hill with slopes bare of vegetation helped the military spot and bomb all vessels that came too close to the walls of the city.
Practical Info
The Citadel has bought by the town of St-Tropez in 1993 and was subsequently restored to its former glory. The dungeon now serves as a maritime museum. Guided visits are available at 11 am and 3:30 pm upon request. English tours are by appointment only.
Address: 1 Montée de la Citadelle, Saint-Tropez, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 83990, France
Hours: Oct 1 - Mar 31 (10 am – 5:30)
Apr 1 - Sept 30 (10 am – 6:30)
Closed Jan 1, May 1, May 17, Nov 11, and Christmas Day
Admission: EUR2.00
From $ 185
Gorges du Loup
Forty-five minutes from Antibes in France’s Alpes-Maritimes region, the scenic drive along the Gorges du Loup takes visitors up close to the Loup River (pronounced “Lou”) as it follows the deep canyon out to the Mediterranean Sea at Bouches-du-Loup. Cutting through the hills at the foot of medieval Gourdon village, the Gorges du Loup road is full of beautiful twists and carved-out tunnels.
Two and a half miles (4 km) into the narrowing gorge, keep an eye out for Cascade de Courmes. For a small fee, you can park your car and walk down the steps to the terrace, where the free-falling cascade descends 130 feet (40 meters) below. There are two other waterfalls to be visited at Gorges du Loup: Saut du Loup and Cascades des Demoiselles.
At the mouth of the canyon, the riverside village of Pont du Loup is a pretty spot to stop for a wander. And not far from the gorge, Tourrettes sur Loup is another popular village stop, famous for its thriving artists’ community and hiking trails around the town.
At Gorges du Loop, visitors can go rock climbing, bungee jumping, hiking and biking—or just enjoy the beautiful view and riverside drive.
Practical Info
To get to the gorge, take a 45-minute drive from Antibes on the D2210 and follow the road signposted as “Les Gorges du Loup.”
Address: Grasse, France
From $ 127
Château de Cr emat
As far as historic French castles go, the Château de Crémat is a mere infant, built in the beginning of the 20th century. But it was designed to appear like it was there long before the city of Nice that spreads below it, with a mixture of architectural styles and a creamy exterior that reflects the stunning Riviera light.
Those wondering if it’s worth a visit should look no further than their taste buds. The Château de Crémat was built specifically for its surrounding land, which is taken up entirely by picturesque vineyards that yield some quality wines. Guided tours of the castle are free, and wine tastings are available for a tasting fee.
Practical Info
If you're looking for a vineyard experience from Nice that doesn't require a lengthy travel time, then Château de Crémat is the place for you – it's just up in the hills of the town. However, it is mandatory to reserve; the Château de Crémat is a quite popular venue for events, with its gardens, outdoor spaces and interior rooms serving a wide variety of receptions and parties, including weddings.
Address: 442 chemin de Crémat, Nice 06200, France
From $ 126