Ultimate French Riviera Road Trip: Must-See Stops from Nice to Saint-Tropez
Updated: Feb 4
Sunshine, salty air, and the kind of views that make you audibly gasp—yep, that’s the French Riviera. Imagine winding coastal roads framed by swaying palms, impossibly blue water stretching out to the horizon, and the promise of a sun-drenched adventure at every turn. A road trip from Nice to Saint-Tropez is the stuff of travel dreams, blending jaw-dropping scenery, charming seaside villages, and some of the best food and wine you’ll ever have.
This guide maps out the perfect route—must-visit stops, hidden gems, and all the little moments that make the journey just as magical as the destination. So, throw on your sunglasses, cue up the perfect road trip playlist, and let’s hit the Riviera in style.
Table of Contents
Starting Point: Nice – Your Gateway to the French Riviera
Why Kick Things Off in Nice?
Because Nice is where the French Riviera really begins to feel like the French Riviera. It’s the perfect launchpad for your road trip—not just because it’s home to the Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (a major international hub) or a train station that conveniently links the entire coastline. But because it sets the mood. That effortless blend of French elegance and Italian charm? You feel it in the architecture, taste it in the local markets, and soak it up along the sun-drenched Promenade des Anglais.
From here, the coastal roads unravel like a postcard-perfect dream, leading you toward Saint-Tropez with one stunning stop after another. So, before you even rev the engine, take a moment. Stroll through Old Town. Savor a salade niçoise actually in Nice. Let the Riviera work its magic. Then? Hit the road.
Must-See Before You Hit the Road
Before you throw your bags in the trunk and set off, take a moment. Nice isn’t just a starting point—it’s an experience. A mood. A deep inhale of the French Riviera before the open road unfurls ahead.
Promenade des Anglais: Start with a sunrise stroll (or bike ride) along this iconic waterfront. Palm trees swaying, the Mediterranean stretching endlessly, historic hotels watching over it all—it’s Nice’s way of easing you into the Riviera lifestyle.
Old Town (Vieux Nice): Lose yourself in a maze of narrow, colorful streets where every turn delivers another postcard-perfect scene. Bustling markets, flower-filled balconies, bistros serving up steaming socca—it’s part French, part Italian, 100% irresistible.
Road Trip Prep: Tips for Hitting the Riviera in Style
Rent a Car in Advance- If freedom had four wheels, it would look like a rental car on the Riviera. Having your own ride means setting your own pace, veering off to hidden beaches, and pulling over whenever the view demands it (which will be often). Book ahead—Nice is a major travel hub, and last-minute rentals can be pricey. Pro tip: Go for a smaller car. The winding, cliffside roads look cinematic but drive better when you’re not squeezing through impossibly tight streets.
Not into driving? No problem. Trains and buses connect Nice to most major stops like Cannes, Monaco, and Antibes, while ferries let you hop between coastal gems. It takes a little extra planning, but the views are worth it!
Start Early- The French Riviera is gorgeous, but it’s no secret. Beat the crowds, snag prime parking, and soak in that golden morning light (your Instagram will thank you).
Pack Smart- Sunscreen (Mediterranean sun is sneaky). Water (hydration is always chic). Comfortable shoes (because cobblestones). And a camera—because you will want to remember this.
Consider a Few Day Trips Before You Go
Got some time before hitting the road? Nice makes a stellar home base for day trips that deliver serious wow-factor.
Monaco – 20 minutes by train. Think luxury, fast cars, and a casino straight out of a Bond film.
Èze – A medieval village perched above the sea with winding stone alleys and gardens that will ruin you for all future botanical experiences.
Antibes – Picasso’s old stomping ground, a charming Old Town, and a marina packed with yachts that cost more than small countries.
Villefranche-sur-Mer – Pastel perfection. Crystal-clear water. A slow kind of magic.
Menton – The “Pearl of France,” where Italian flavors and French elegance collide in the best way.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat – Secluded beaches, coastal trails, and Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild—a pink palace that looks like it stepped out of a dream.
Fuel Up: The Pre-Road Trip Feast
A Riviera road trip deserves a proper sendoff. Grab a buttery croissant, sip a café crème, or go full local with a salade niçoise and a glass of crisp rosé.
Need more inspiration? Check out our Nice Travel Guide for the best places to eat, drink, and explore before you hit the road. Because a trip like this isn’t just about the destination—it’s about savoring every moment along the way.
Stop 1: Antibes
Antibes is where history meets the sea—and where you might just decide to stay forever. This town is effortlessly cool, with centuries-old ramparts guarding its coastline, a Picasso Museum housed in a literal castle, and a marina so packed with superyachts it makes Monaco look humble. Stroll through the charming Old Town, soak in the Riviera’s golden light, and see why Antibes feels like the kind of place where artists, sailors, and dreamers all find a reason to linger.
Getting to Antibes from Nice
Antibes is just a short 30-minute drive from Nice—22 kilometers (14 miles) of pure Riviera bliss. The fastest route? The A8 motorway. The prettiest route? The D6007, a coastal road that drapes itself along the Mediterranean, serving up pinch-me views at every turn. If you’re in no rush (and really, why would you be?), take the scenic way. Roll down the windows. Let the sea breeze do its thing.
Parking Can Be a Pain. Summer in Antibes = parking chaos. Arrive early or park just outside the center. Better yet, skip the car stress and take the train—Antibes is a quick, direct ride from Nice.
How Long to Stay- Half a day? Perfect for highlights. A full day? Even better if you want to linger over a seaside lunch, explore hidden coves, or just let Antibes work its magic at a slower pace. Mornings are for markets and Old Town meandering. Afternoons? Picasso, yachts, and Cap d’Antibes.
Antibes Must-Sees
Old Town & Marché Provençal
If Antibes had a heartbeat, this would be it. A maze of cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and a market so full of Provençal goodness (cheeses, olives, fresh-cut flowers) that you’ll wish you brought a bigger bag. The market runs every morning except Mondays—hit it between 9:00 and 11:30 a.m. for peak energy and the freshest finds.
Picasso Museum
A castle-turned-museum filled with Picasso’s sketches, ceramics, and paintings—plus that view of the sea from the terrace. Picasso lived and worked here for a while, and you can almost feel his creative energy still lingering in the air. Pro tip: Go right when it opens at 10:00 a.m. or in the early afternoon (1:30–3:00 p.m.) to dodge the crowds.
Port Vauban
This isn’t just a marina; it’s the marina—Europe’s largest, in fact. Expect yachts so big they might have their own zip codes. Walk the promenade, admire the boats, and grab a coffee at a waterfront café for some top-tier people (and luxury yacht) watching.
Cap d’Antibes
If you’re in the mood for a little adventure, head to Cap d’Antibes, a rugged peninsula where the Mediterranean meets sheer cliffs and secret beaches. Hike the Sentier du Littoral (Tire-Poil Trail) for coastline views that will ruin you for all future hikes. Or, if relaxation is more your speed, post up at Plage de la Garoupe, a stunning sandy beach with turquoise water so clear you’ll think someone cranked up the saturation.
Want the full scoop? Check out our Antibes Travel Guide for insider tips, top dining spots, and all the little details that make this stop unforgettable.
Stop 2: Cannes
Cannes is where Old Hollywood glamour meets the French Riviera—and somehow, it pulls off both effortlessly. Yes, it’s home to the world-famous Cannes Film Festival, where A-listers glide down the red carpet, and the flash of paparazzi cameras lights up the night. But Cannes is always a little bit fabulous, even when the festival isn’t in full swing.
Stroll the palm-lined Boulevard de la Croisette, where designer boutiques and seaside cafés make window-shopping feel like a luxury sport. Wander into Le Suquet, the city’s old quarter, for cobbled streets, local markets, and a view that reminds you why the Riviera is the Riviera. Or simply sit at a beachfront restaurant, sip something chilled, and pretend you belong here—because for today, you do.
Getting to Cannes
Antibes to Cannes? It’s practically a blink-and-you’re-there situation.
By train: A breezy 10-minute ride with frequent departures. No parking stress, no traffic—just hop on and go.
By car: If you prefer the freedom of four wheels, the A8 motorway or the scenic D6007 coastal road will get you there in 15–20 minutes (give or take a little Riviera traffic). Parking? Plenty of options near La Croisette, but if it’s festival season, good luck.
How Long to Stay
Half a day? Just enough time to hit the highlights and soak in the coastal glamour.
A full day? Now you’re talking. Cannes has layers—seaside luxury, old-world charm, and if you time it right, maybe even a sun-soaked afternoon at one of its famous beach clubs.
Cannes Must-Sees
La Croisette – The palm-lined catwalk of Cannes. Luxury boutiques, grand hotels, and impossibly stylish people-watching. Walk it, soak it in, pretend you belong here (because today, you do).
Le Suquet – Cannes’ charming old quarter. A maze of cobblestone streets, pastel facades, and that panoramic view over the city and sea. Bonus points if you grab a café seat and linger like a local.
Palais des Festivals – The birthplace of that red carpet moment. Even outside festival season, the famous steps are a photo-op waiting to happen. Strike a pose—no Oscars required.
Marché Forville – A sensory overload of French deliciousness. Fresh produce, local cheeses, and Provençal flavors that will make you wish you had a bigger suitcase (or a kitchen).
Îles de Lérins – A quick ferry ride, a world away. These serene islands offer hidden coves, lush pine forests, and a mysterious prison that once held the real-life Man in the Iron Mask. Because Cannes isn’t just about luxury—it’s also about legends.
Smart Tips for a Smooth Visit
Mind the Events Calendar- Cannes loves a big event. If you’re visiting during the Cannes Film Festival (May) or another major conference, expect crowds, sky-high prices, and an atmosphere buzzing with energy. Visiting outside those times? You’ll find a more relaxed (but still fabulous) Cannes.
Dine & Shop Like a Local (or Like a Celebrity)- La Croisette is where the luxury labels live, but venture a few streets back and you’ll find a mix of charming cafés, seafood spots, and authentic French bistros. Whether you’re splurging on a Michelin-starred meal or grabbing a croissant and espresso, Cannes knows how to do indulgence right.
Check out our Cannes Travel Guide for all the must-know tips, top dining spots, and hidden gems that make this city a French Riviera icon.
Stop 3: Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus
Next up: a Riviera duo that doesn’t demand the spotlight—but absolutely deserves it.
Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus are where history meets the sea, where Roman ruins sit just steps from golden beaches, and where the pace slows just enough to let you breathe it all in. These neighboring towns offer a laid-back break from the glitz of Cannes, blending ancient landmarks, coastal charm, and postcard-worthy views into one effortlessly cool stop. Whether you’re wandering through Roman amphitheaters, strolling along the marina, or simply kicking back with a coffee by the sea, Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus prove that sometimes, the best stops are the ones that don’t try too hard.
Getting to Saint-Raphaël & Fréjus from Cannes
This stretch of the journey is smooth, scenic, and just long enough to build anticipation.
By car: It’s about 45 minutes to an hour via the A8 motorway—an easy drive with glimpses of the shimmering Mediterranean along the way.
By train: Prefer to sit back and let someone else do the work? Trains from Cannes to Saint-Raphaël-Valescure Station run regularly and take 30–40 minutes. No parking stress, just Riviera views.
How Long to Stay?
A half-day is perfect for hitting the highlights: Roman ruins, a beachside stroll, maybe a long lunch with a sea view.
A full day? Even better. Give yourself time to really wander, take a dip in the sea, and let these two towns slow your pace just a little.
Must-Sees in Saint-Raphaël & Fréjus
Fréjus Amphitheater
A 1st-century Roman amphitheater that once hosted gladiator battles (yes, really). Today, it’s remarkably well-preserved, and you can still walk its stone steps and imagine the roar of an ancient crowd. Bonus: Fréjus is dotted with other Roman gems, like aqueduct ruins and its historic cathedral, making it a dream stop for history buffs.
Saint-Raphaël Beaches
Soft sand, calm waters, and zero pretension. The beaches here are the antidote to the packed Riviera hot spots. Plage du Veillat is the easiest to access and has that just-right mix of relaxation and Riviera glam. Swim, sunbathe, or just let the sound of the waves do its thing.
Smart Tips for a Relaxing Visit
Embrace the Slow Pace- If Cannes is all about the scene, Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus are about the pause. These towns are your chance to take a breath, swap crowds for quiet, and soak up a more relaxed side of the Riviera.
Dig Into the History- If ancient ruins are your thing, Fréjus delivers. The amphitheater, aqueduct, and cathedral each tell a story of the town’s Roman past, making it worth spending extra time here if you love history with your sunshine.
Seaside Dining Done Right- This is the kind of place where you linger over lunch. Find a waterfront café, order a fresh seafood dish, or grab some Provençal pastries from a local bakery and make it a picnic by the sea. Simple. Perfect.
Why Stop Here?
Because not every Riviera stop needs to be about luxury and celebrity. Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus bring the laid-back, sun-kissed, history-filled energy that balances out the glitz of Cannes and the flash of Saint-Tropez. It’s where the past meets the sea, and where you get to slow down and actually enjoy it.
Final Stop: Saint-Tropez
And just like that, you’ve arrived at the grand finale—the glittering, sun-soaked, effortlessly glamorous Saint-Tropez.
This is where superyachts and pastel fishing boats share the same postcard-perfect harbor. Where beach clubs buzz with champagne-fueled afternoons. Where cobblestone streets lead to designer boutiques, hidden cafés, and the kind of Old Town charm that makes you want to move here permanently (or at least pretend you could).
Saint-Tropez is the place to end your French Riviera road trip in style—whether that means dancing until dawn, lounging at Plage de Pampelonne, or simply sipping a crisp rosé as the sun sets over the port. Because if you’re going to wrap up an epic journey, it should be somewhere unforgettable.
Getting to Saint-Tropez from Saint-Raphaël
This last stretch? It’s technically 38 kilometers (24 miles), but let’s be real—it’s the French Riviera, where road time is more of a suggestion than a guarantee.
By car: In theory, it’s a 1 to 1.5-hour drive along coastal roads. In reality? If it’s summer, expect a slow, scenic crawl. Traffic here has main character energy.
By ferry: A 1-hour boat ride from Saint-Raphaël skips the traffic and adds a little Riviera flair to your arrival. No honking, no parking stress—just open water, fresh air, and Saint-Tropez coming into view like a scene from a movie.
How Long to Stay?
A day trip gives you a taste of Saint-Tropez—the sun, the shopping, the people-watching.
An overnight stay? That’s when you see its full personality: lazy beach mornings, afternoon rosé sessions, and nightlife that runs on its own time zone.
If you can swing it, 1-2 days lets you soak in both the daytime and after-dark magic.
Must-Sees in Saint-Tropez
Pampelonne Beach – The Saint-Tropez beach. Soft golden sand, impossibly blue water, and legendary beach clubs like Club 55 where the rosé flows and the people-watching is next level.
Place des Lices Market – A Provençal market that happens Tuesdays & Saturdays, where locals and A-listers shop for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, vintage treasures, and Riviera-perfect linens under ancient plane trees.
La Ponche – The old fishing quarter of Saint-Tropez, where cobbled streets, pastel-colored buildings, and charming little cafés remind you that before the glitz, this was a simple seaside town.
Vieux Port (Old Port) – A harbor packed with superyachts and classic fishing boats, waterfront cafés buzzing with energy, and some of the best spots to sip an espresso (or a glass of rosé) while soaking up the scene.
Citadel of Saint-Tropez – Climb up to this 17th-century fortress for sweeping views over the town and the Mediterranean. Bonus: It houses the Maritime Museum, where you can learn about Saint-Tropez’s roots before it became a jet-set paradise.
Smart Tips for a Smooth Visit
Book Ahead- Saint-Tropez doesn’t do spontaneity well in peak season. Want a table at Sénéquier? A sunbed at Nikki Beach? A room with a view? Reserve early—or risk improvising.
See Saint-Tropez from the Water- A boat tour is the Riviera flex you didn’t know you needed. Rent a small boat for the afternoon, or hop on a sunset cruise to see the coastline exactly how it was meant to be seen.
Heading Back to Nice? Plan Accordingly. The drive from Saint-Tropez to Nice is 2 to 2.5 hours via the A8 motorway, depending on traffic (which can be a lot). Not into the idea of white-knuckling your way back? Take the ferry to Saint-Raphaël and train it back to Nice—scenic, stress-free, and a proper way to close out the trip.
Why End Your Trip Here?
Because Saint-Tropez is the full Riviera experience in one place—old-world charm, modern-day luxury, sun-drenched beaches, and nights that stretch into mornings. It’s the kind of place that lingers long after you leave.
Our Saint-Tropez Travel Guide has all the must-knows, from where to eat to how to get into that beach club.
Want to Keep the Adventure Going? Here’s Where to Head Next.
Just because your Riviera road trip is technically over doesn’t mean the adventure has to be. If you’re not ready to say au revoir to the South of France just yet (and who could blame you?), here are two ways to extend the magic—each offering a completely different vibe.
West to Provence: Picture rolling vineyards, hilltop villages, and the scent of lavender drifting through the air. Provence is the perfect contrast to the Riviera’s coastal glamour—think slow mornings in Gordes, rosé tastings in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and market-hopping in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. It’s sun-drenched, storybook-perfect France at its best.
Down to Marseille: A 2-hour drive takes you to France’s edgiest port city, where history, street art, and a dynamic food scene come together in a way that feels both gritty and gorgeous. Walk the Vieux-Port, explore the stunning Calanques National Park, and don’t leave without trying a steaming bowl of bouillabaisse—because if you’re going to eat seafood stew, this is the place to do it.
Either way? You win.
Tips for a French Riviera Road Trip You’ll Never Forget
The French Riviera isn’t just a place—it’s a mood. It’s the kind of trip that stays with you long after the sunscreen fades, the last sip of rosé is gone, and your suitcase is reluctantly unpacked. Whether you’re driving the iconic coastal roads with the wind in your hair or letting the scenic trains do the work, here’s how to make sure your trip is nothing short of spectacular.
Smart Moves for a Seamless Riviera Adventure
Book Accommodations in Advance- The Riviera gets busy—especially in summer. If you have your heart set on a boutique hotel in Nice, a dreamy stay in Èze, or a seaside escape in Menton, book ahead. Last-minute planning in high season? That’s a guaranteed c’est la vie moment you don’t want.
Car vs. Public Transport: Choose Your Own Adventure- A rental car means freedom—impromptu vineyard stops, hidden beaches, and those let’s pull over just to take this all in moments. But the Riviera’s train system is surprisingly efficient, scenic, and stress-free. If you’re sticking to major stops (Nice, Cannes, Monaco), ditch the car and let the trains handle the views.
Know the Tolls- If you’re driving, be ready for France’s love affair with toll roads (A8, we’re looking at you). Have a credit card or cash handy because stopping to dig through your bag at a toll booth? Not the vibe.
Travel Off-Season for Peak Enjoyment- Want fewer crowds, better hotel rates, and that magical soft Riviera light? Spring and early fall are chef’s kiss perfect. Summer is peak season for a reason, but it also means long lines, packed beaches, and parking struggles that could ruin friendships.
Pack Like a Pro- This is a sunglasses, SPF, breezy linen outfit, and comfortable walking shoes kind of trip. A light jacket? Yes, especially for those cooler evenings in spring or fall. A camera? Obviously. A little extra suitcase space for the irresistible French market finds? Highly recommended.
Reservations Are Your Best Friend- Want a front-row seat at a Cannes beach club, a table at that buzzy Saint-Tropez restaurant, or a cozy dinner in Old Nice? Book ahead—especially in summer. The Riviera doesn’t reward procrastinators.
Balance the Big Names with Hidden Gems- Yes, Cannes, Nice, and Monaco sparkle. But don’t skip the old-world charm of Antibes, the seaside calm of Saint-Raphaël, or the fragrance-filled streets of Grasse. The Riviera is at its best when you mix big energy with small-town magic.
Ready to Map Out Your Riviera Escape?
Whether you’re cruising the coastal roads with the top down or sipping espresso on a scenic train, one thing’s for sure—the French Riviera delivers. Sun-drenched beaches, storybook villages, legendary cuisine, and just the right amount of indulgence? Yes, please.
✨ Want to do it right? Dive into our French Riviera Travel Guide—packed with local insights, must-visit restaurants, dreamy hotels, and essential tips to make your trip effortless.
Start planning now, book your stay, and get ready to experience the Côte d’Azur in all its iconic glory.
