Travel Tips for the French Riviera

Insider Tips

Discover a more authentic side of the French Riviera with these intriguing travel tips, offering unique experiences and insider knowledge to elevate your trip from ordinary to extraordinary. From hidden beaches and scenic drives to secret foodie spots and cultural treasures, these tips will help you uncover the Riviera's lesser-known gems and create unforgettable memories on your journey.

Secret Beaches

• The French Riviera’s beaches can get crowded, but there are hidden gems. Plage de la Mala in Cap d'Ail is one such secret spot, offering clear waters and a more relaxed vibe, accessible only by foot or boat. Another quiet retreat is Paloma Beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, where you can bask in the serenity, away from the larger crowds.

• For a wilder, more natural setting, head to Plage de Passable, also in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, which is often overlooked by tourists.

Local Markets You Can’t Miss

• The Riviera is full of bustling markets, but some stand out for their authentic charm. The Marché Forville in Cannes is the perfect place to find fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods. It’s less touristy than many markets, so you can interact more with locals and get a feel for everyday life in Cannes.

• For a truly Provençal experience, visit Cours Saleya in Nice. While it’s famous for flowers, the market also offers some of the best socca (chickpea pancakes) and olive oil in the region. Visit early in the morning for a more relaxed experience before the crowds arrive.

Best Spots for Stunning Sunsets

• While the Promenade des Anglais in Nice is a popular sunset spot, for a quieter, more magical view, head to the hilltop park Parc du Château. The panoramic view of the entire coastline from above, with the golden glow reflecting on the Mediterranean, is an unforgettable experience.

• For a more intimate setting, the Cap d'Antibes coastal path offers secluded spots where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting its final rays over the cliffs and the sea.

Embrace the Art Scene

• The French Riviera has long been a haven for artists like Picasso and Matisse. While everyone knows the big galleries, a hidden gem is the Chapelle du Rosaire de Vence, designed by Henri Matisse. This small chapel in Vence is a serene masterpiece that blends art, architecture, and spirituality.

• Don’t miss the Musée Picasso in Antibes, housed in a stunning sea-facing castle, where you can view the works Picasso created during his time in the Riviera, along with art by other renowned 20th-century artists.

Take the Corniche Roads for Spectacular Drives

• The French Riviera is home to three famous coastal roads, known as the Corniches. For an unforgettable scenic drive, take the Grande Corniche, which runs high above the sea, offering spectacular views of the coastline and the Alps. This road is less trafficked than the Moyenne and Basse Corniches, and you'll pass through charming villages like Èze, perched on a hill with views that will take your breath away.

• If you want to channel your inner movie star, rent a vintage car and drive along the Moyenne Corniche, which was featured in many famous films. It’s especially beautiful between Monaco and Nice.

Indulge in Riviera’s Rosé Wine Scene

• Provence is the heart of rosé wine, and the Riviera is no exception. For a unique experience, visit the Château de Berne or Domaines Ott, where you can tour the vineyards and sample local wines. Bandol is also a famous wine region near the Riviera, producing some of the finest rosés in France.

• For a romantic evening, enjoy a glass of local rosé on the beach at Plage Keller in Antibes. The sunset paired with a chilled bottle makes for an unforgettable Riviera moment.

Learn to Make Provençal Cuisine

• Why just eat the food when you can learn how to make it? Join a cooking class in Nice or Antibes, where local chefs teach you how to make regional favorites like ratatouille, pissaladière, or bouillabaisse. These experiences often include a trip to the local market to source ingredients, making the class even more immersive.

• Les Petits Farcis in Nice offers an intimate cooking experience, giving you insight into traditional Niçoise cuisine, which you can recreate at home.

Explore Off-the-Beaten-Path Villages

• While towns like Cannes and Saint-Tropez are iconic, the real charm of the Riviera lies in its lesser-known villages. Èze is a medieval village perched high above the sea, offering stunning views and tiny streets filled with artisan shops and galleries. Visit the exotic garden at the top for a 360-degree view of the coastline.

• Saint-Paul-de-Vence is another hidden treasure, a haven for art lovers, with galleries tucked away in its cobbled streets. Walk in the footsteps of artists like Chagall, who was inspired by its peaceful beauty.

Attend a Local Festival

• The French Riviera is known for its glamorous events, but some of the best festivals fly under the radar. Fête du Citron in Menton is a unique celebration of lemons, with elaborate citrus sculptures, parades, and street fairs held every February.

• The Jazz à Juan festival in Juan-les-Pins is one of the oldest jazz festivals in Europe. Held every July, it attracts world-class musicians and offers an incredible atmosphere along the waterfront.

Visit Hidden Wine Bars

• For a true taste of the French Riviera’s wine culture, head to La Part des Anges in Nice, a hidden gem of a wine bar where you can sample natural wines and pair them with regional cheeses and charcuterie.

• In Cannes, visit Le Bar à Vin for a laid-back atmosphere and a fantastic selection of local wines. It’s an excellent spot to mingle with locals and soak in the Riviera's laid-back lifestyle.

These unique tips help you uncover the hidden gems, authentic experiences, and local flavors that make the French Riviera such a magical destination!

Essential travel tips to help you make the most of your visit to the French Riviera:

Currency and Payments

• The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases in markets or rural areas.

• ATMs are easy to find in larger towns, but fees for international withdrawals can add up, so plan accordingly.

Language

• French is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic French phrases, such as "bonjour" (hello), "merci" (thank you), and "s'il vous plaît" (please), will be appreciated by locals.

Dress Code

• The French Riviera is stylish, and casual yet chic attire is typical. For dining out or visiting upscale areas like Monaco or Saint-Tropez, you might want to dress a bit more elegantly. Beachwear is fine for the beach but not appropriate in restaurants or city centers.

Tipping

• Service is typically included in restaurant bills, but it's customary to round up or leave a small tip (5–10%) for good service. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is appreciated.

Safety

• The French Riviera is generally safe, but like any tourist destination, be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and markets. Keep your belongings secure and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight on beaches.

Beach Etiquette

• Many beaches in the Riviera are pebbly (like in Nice), so bringing or renting a beach mat is a good idea. There are both public and private beaches. Private beaches often charge for sunbeds and umbrellas but offer amenities like food service and restrooms. Topless sunbathing is common, and nudist beaches can be found in some areas.

Booking in Advance

• For popular attractions like the Monaco Grand Prix, Cannes Film Festival, or high-end restaurants, it’s essential to book well in advance. Even outside of major events, booking your accommodation early during peak season is advised.

Explore Beyond the Coast

• While the coastline gets most of the attention, don't miss the charming inland villages like Èze, Grasse, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence. These medieval towns offer a quieter, more authentic Riviera experience with beautiful landscapes and local culture.

Stay Hydrated and Protected

• Summers in the Riviera can get hot, so always carry water with you and wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Mediterranean sun. Beachfront areas often have shaded spots, but inland sightseeing may not, so prepare accordingly.

Cultural Etiquette

• French people appreciate politeness. Always greet with "bonjour" when entering shops, restaurants, or engaging with locals. It’s considered polite to say "au revoir" (goodbye) when leaving.

• In restaurants, meals are enjoyed at a relaxed pace, so don’t expect fast service. Dining is seen as a social activity, so take your time to enjoy the meal.