Explore the Best 8 Cities of the French Riviera

Which French Riviera Destination Is Right for You?

The French Riviera is much more than a sunny coastline—it's a mosaic of cities, each with its own personality. From the regal streets of Monaco to the bohemian buzz of Antibes, choosing where to stay can shape your experience dramatically. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each town to help you plan the perfect trip.

🌆 Nice – Best for First-Time Visitors & Urban Vibes

Nice is the unofficial capital of the Côte d’Azur. Its central location, thriving cultural scene, and walkability make it a top choice for travelers who want convenience and character. Don’t miss the daily flower market in Cours Saleya, Matisse Museum, and Castle Hill for panoramic views.

👑 Monaco – Best for Luxury, Formula 1 & Royal History

This glamorous microstate combines modern architecture with historic treasures. Watch the Grand Prix in May or visit the Oceanographic Museum and Casino de Monte-Carlo. It’s ideal for couples, luxury seekers, and those wanting a taste of Riviera opulence.

🎬 Cannes – Best for Festivals, Shopping & Sandy Beaches

Known for its international film festival, Cannes offers designer boutiques, beach clubs, and the palm-lined Croisette. The Iles de Lérins are just a short ferry away, offering a nature escape from the glamour.

🎨 Antibes – Best for Art Lovers & Historic Charm

Home to Picasso’s former studio, Antibes is steeped in artistic history. Its ramparts, market squares, and yachts create a beautiful blend of old-world and modern Riviera. Juan-les-Pins next door offers nightlife and sandy beaches.

🏞️ Èze – Best for Romantic Walks & Breathtaking Views

Perched on cliffs between Nice and Monaco, Èze is a medieval dream. Cobblestone paths, perfumeries, and the Exotic Garden offer a quieter, more poetic side of the coast.

🍋 Menton – Best for Slow Travel & Franco-Italian Flavor

Just near the Italian border, Menton is famous for its lemon groves and Belle Époque architecture. It's ideal for couples and families looking for a peaceful base with cultural depth and natural beauty.

🚤 Villefranche-sur-Mer – Best for Postcard Views

Often overlooked, Villefranche is a gem. With its turquoise bay, pastel houses, and laid-back energy, it's perfect for those craving quiet elegance with easy train access to Nice or Monaco.

🌟 Saint-Tropez – Best for Style, Celebrities & Nightlife

This legendary port town blends Provençal charm with international glam. Visit during shoulder season for fewer crowds or arrive by boat to make a dramatic entrance.

Frequently Asked Questions – French Riviera Cities

How many cities should I visit on a 1-week Riviera trip?

If you're traveling for 7 days, aim to base yourself in one or two cities and do day trips from there. For example, stay in Nice and take day trips to Èze, Monaco, Antibes, or Villefranche.

What’s the easiest town for car-free travel?

Nice is the best connected by tram, bus, and regional train. Monaco and Antibes are also very accessible without a car. Avoid driving into Monaco or Cannes during peak festival times if possible.

When’s the best time to explore multiple towns?

Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September) offer ideal weather and fewer crowds. July and August are lively but more expensive. Many travelers plan their trips around local events or festivals.

Can I stay in one town and explore the others?

Absolutely. Nice is a great hub with trains every 15–30 minutes along the coastline. It's easy to day trip to Cannes, Monaco, Èze, and Villefranche without changing hotels.

Riviera Travel Tips by City

• Nice: Book early during Carnival or summer. Consider staying near Old Town for walkability.
• Monaco: Luxury hotels fill up for the Grand Prix—reserve months in advance.
• Antibes: The Provençal market is busiest mid-morning. Early birds get the best photos of the ramparts.
• Èze: Wear good walking shoes—cobblestones and hills are part of the charm.
• Menton: Visit in February for the Lemon Festival, or in spring for quiet streets and blooming gardens.
• Villefranche-sur-Mer: Grab a seaside lunch, then visit the 16th-century Chapel of Saint-Pierre.
• Saint-Tropez: Arrive by boat or early morning to avoid traffic. Book beach clubs in advance in summer.

Best French Riviera Towns by Travel Style

If you're unsure which town to base your stay on, think about your priorities—relaxation, history, food, nightlife, or shopping. Each Riviera destination has a distinct vibe. Here are some curated picks based on popular travel styles:

❤️ For Couples

• Èze: Quiet, cobbled alleys, dramatic sea views, and romantic hotels like Château de la Chèvre d’Or.
• Villefranche-sur-Mer: Less touristy than Nice, with scenic cafes and peaceful beach walks.
• Saint-Paul-de-Vence: An artistic hilltop village, perfect for art galleries and wine tastings.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families

• Antibes: Great for sandy beaches and family-friendly attractions like Marineland and the Picasso Museum.
• Nice: Offers parks, easy transport, a beach promenade, and kid-friendly dining.
• Menton: Calmer atmosphere, walkable town center, and great for slow travel with young children.

🎉 For Nightlife & Social Scene

• Cannes: High-energy beach bars, luxury rooftop lounges, and buzzing clubs near the port.
• Nice: The Old Town offers live music bars, casual pubs, and stylish cocktail lounges.
• Juan-les-Pins: Popular with young locals and visitors during summer, with outdoor beach parties.

🎨 For Culture & History Lovers

• Monaco: World-class museums, historic palaces, and elegant gardens.
• Antibes: Ancient ramparts, old markets, and strong literary/artistic roots.
• Saint-Tropez (Old Town): Explore the Citadel, Annonciade Museum, and quaint fishermen’s quarters.

🍷 For Foodies & Market Lovers

• Nice: AOC olive oils, Niçoise cuisine, and the famous Cours Saleya market.
• Menton: Mediterranean-meets-Italian cuisine, plus lemon-themed delicacies everywhere.
• Vence: Small but rich in Provençal specialties and local produce.

Quick Comparison Table – French Riviera Destinations

Here’s a handy overview of popular towns based on traveler needs:

Travel Logistics: How to Move Between Cities

Getting around the Riviera is easier than it looks, especially with a bit of planning. Here are your options:

🚆 Train

The TER coastal train is affordable and efficient. It runs from Ventimiglia (Italy) through to Cannes and beyond, stopping in towns like Nice, Monaco, Villefranche, and Antibes. No need to book in advance.

🚗 Car Rental

Ideal if you're venturing inland to hilltop villages or vineyards. Keep in mind that parking can be difficult in Monaco and central Nice. A compact vehicle is best.

🚌 Bus

Local buses are slower but cheaper. Some scenic routes like the #82 from Nice to Èze offer stunning views but require time and flexibility.

⛴ Ferry

During summer, ferries link Nice, Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. They’re a scenic alternative to road travel and offer great photo opportunities from the sea.

Your French Riviera Adventure Starts Now

Choosing the right town is step one—next comes the fun of planning your Riviera experience. Whether you're drawn to historic cities, boutique hotels, coastal hikes, or beachside brunches, there's a place for every traveler here.

Use our destination guides to dive deeper into each town. From hidden alleys in Èze to rooftop cocktails in Cannes, we've got your dream trip covered.

Best Seasons to Visit Each Destination

The French Riviera is beautiful year-round, but some towns shine brightest during specific seasons. Here's a quick guide to help time your trip perfectly:

Every town has something to offer year-round, but this seasonal approach helps you match your plans with the right atmosphere—whether that’s festive, romantic, or relaxed.

Not Sure Where to Go? Take Our Quick Riviera Quiz

We get it—choosing from so many beautiful destinations can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve built a fun, 60-second quiz to match your travel style to the perfect town or city.

Are you a gourmet traveler? An art lover? A sun-chaser or nightlife seeker? This quick tool will help narrow things down and even suggest places you might not have considered.

Let Us Help You Plan Your Journey

Need a custom itinerary that blends beach days with historic towns, food markets, and local secrets? Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, our local experts can help you book the right hotels, suggest must-visit markets, and even arrange transfers.

• ✔️ Itineraries based on your time, pace, and budget
• ✔️ Handpicked hotel suggestions and exclusive offers
• ✔️ Help with booking trains, ferries, and private tours

Planning your Riviera trip should be joyful, not stressful. Let us take care of the details while you focus on soaking up the sunshine and culture.

Linking It All Together: How to Use Our Destination Guides

Now that you’ve explored the key cities, hidden villages, and day trip options, it’s time to dive deeper. Each destination featured on our site includes:

• 📍 Detailed neighborhood breakdowns
• 🏨 Best hotels and places to stay
• 🍽 Restaurant and market highlights
• 🎟 Events, activities, and museum ideas
• 🚶‍♀️ Walking routes and local tips

We recommend bookmarking the destinations you’re most curious about and checking out their dedicated pages. Whether you want to book a beach day in Antibes, trace the steps of James Bond in Monaco, or sip rosé on a vineyard terrace in Saint-Tropez, our guides make it easy to build a customized adventure.

How Long Should You Stay on the French Riviera?

To truly experience the Riviera’s variety, plan to stay at least five to seven days. This allows time to explore three or four towns at a relaxed pace. If you’re limited on time, basing yourself in Nice offers quick train access to Monaco, Antibes, and Menton. For a slower, village-based holiday, consider staying in Èze or Saint-Paul-de-Vence. All towns are generally safe for solo travelers and families. If you're a beach lover, avoid winter; if you're into art, history, or food, spring and fall are unbeatable. The key is to mix iconic places with small surprises along the way.

Start Planning Your Perfect French Riviera Escape

Every city along the Côte d’Azur has a story to tell. Use our detailed travel guides to find where you’ll feel most at home—whether you're a culture lover, foodie, beachcomber, or fashion fan. From quiet hilltop towns to beachfront boulevards, your Riviera adventure starts here.