Top 5 Amazing Things to Do in Antibes

Antibes, a sun-drenched jewel of the French Riviera, blends old-world charm with coastal elegance. If you're planning a trip to the Côte d’Azur, Antibes offers the perfect mix of historic streets, turquoise beaches, and Provençal soul. Whether you're a first-timer, romantic couple, or solo explorer, this guide gives you everything you need to make the most of your Antibes experience.

A Brief History of Antibes

From Ancient Greeks to Riviera Chic

Antibes is one of the oldest towns on the French Riviera, founded by Greek settlers in the 5th century BCE as “Antipolis.” Under Roman rule it thrived as a trading port and military post—remnants of walls and aqueducts still remain. In the Middle Ages it became a key coastal stronghold, later joining France in the 15th century. Fort Carré, built in the 16th century, strengthened its defenses and even Napoleon set foot on its ramparts.

In the 20th century, Antibes blossomed into an artistic haven. Picasso worked here in 1946 (his pieces now fill the Picasso Museum), and writers and painters like Graham Greene and Nicolas de Staël were drawn by its light and Mediterranean rhythm.

Fun Facts About Antibes

• World’s Largest Yachts: Port Vauban’s Billionaires’ Quay hosts some of the biggest yachts on earth.
• Jazz Legacy: Neighboring Juan-les-Pins runs Jazz à Juan, one of Europe’s oldest jazz festivals.
• Pirate Roots: Antibes was historically raided by pirates and served as a key lookout.
• Literary Past: Graham Greene lived here for over 25 years.
• Film Favorite: Its dreamy backdrops feature in numerous films.

1. Stroll Through the Old Town (Vieil Antibes)

Wander narrow lanes lined with flowered balconies, traditional markets, and open-air cafés. Don’t miss the Marché Provençal, artisan boutiques, and sparkling sea views.

Visit early for quiet streets and the freshest produce. Grab a croissant and people‑watch in Place Nationale. Pop into the Musée Peynet et du Dessin Humoristique just off Rue Lacan, and keep an eye out for murals across town.

• Why go? Authentic charm, colorful streets, perfect for photography
• Local tip: Go in the morning for fewer crowds.
• Cost: Free

2. Marvel at the Picasso Museum

Housed in the 14th‑century Château Grimaldi, the museum exhibits over 200 works Picasso created while staying in Antibes. The cliffside setting delivers sweeping sea views.

Expect rotating shows with 20th‑century masters like Nicolas de Staël and Joan Miró. Cap your visit on the sculpture terrace where monumental works meet the horizon.

• Why go? Unique Picasso works, sea views, intimate scale
• Local tip: Entry is around €8 and quieter late afternoon.

3. Relax at Plage de la Salis

A family‑friendly beach with soft sand, calm water, and views of the Alpes‑Maritimes. Great for swimming, sunbathing, picnics, paddleboarding, and snorkeling near the rocks.

• Why go? Free access, close to town, perfect for sunsets
• Local tip: Arrive early; grab gelato from nearby vendors.

Beach essentials:

• Sunscreen & sun hat
• Beach shoes (some pebbly patches)
• Reusable water bottle

4. Discover Port Vauban

One of Europe’s largest marinas, Port Vauban dazzles with superyachts and history. Check out the 16th‑century Fort Carré overlooking the port—guided tours offer panoramic views.

• Why go? Yacht‑spotting, fortress views, golden‑hour walks
• Tip: Consider a harbor tour to learn the port’s storied past.

5. Cap d’Antibes Coastal Walk

The Sentier du Littoral hugs craggy limestone cliffs from Plage de la Garoupe, revealing hidden coves, wild rosemary, and villas behind stone walls.

Stop at Villa Eilenroc (open select afternoons) for its gardens and rose collection.

• Duration: 1.5–2 hours roundtrip
• Local tip: Wear proper shoes, bring water, avoid midday heat.

• Hidden swimming coves
• Views toward the Lérins Islands
• Quiet benches for reading

6. Aquasplash Antibes

A lively water park mixing high‑adrenaline slides with lazy rivers and kids’ splash zones. Shaded areas, food stands, and VIP lounges keep everyone comfy between rides.

• Duration: Half‑day to full day
• Local tip: Wear water shoes and book online for best prices.

• High‑speed slides and wave pools
• Dedicated kids’ zones
• VIP sunbed areas

Where to Stay in Antibes

Whether you want elegant beachfront views or Old Town charm, Antibes has stays for every budget.

• Budget: Hotel Le Collier — Modern and comfortable, short walk to the beach.
• Mid‑range: La Place Boutique Hotel — Cozy Provençal style in the heart of Old Town.
• Luxury: Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel — 5‑star service, private beach, sea views.

For a quiet retreat, consider hillside guesthouses like Mas Djoliba, or go full Riviera glam at Hôtel Belles Rives in nearby Juan‑les‑Pins.

Best Restaurants in Antibes

Indulge in Provençal cuisine, fresh seafood, and delicious pastries at these local favorites.

• Le Figuier de Saint‑Esprit: Michelin‑star dining with sea views
• Bistrot du Coin: Traditional Provençal flavors at great value
• Le Brulot: Romantic seafood in Old Town
• L’Arazur: Creative Mediterranean cucina
• La Taille de Guêpe: Edible‑flower dishes and artistic plating

Browse Rue de la République for wine bars and bustling bistros after 7pm. Street‑food tip: try socca, a crispy chickpea pancake.

Shopping in Antibes

From Provençal markets to designer pop‑ups, Antibes is a haven for boutique lovers and artisans.

• Marché Provençal: Produce, cheese, lavender, and spices
• Rue Sade: Ceramics, handmade bags, and art prints
• Rue Thuret: Upscale Riviera brands and concept stores
• Galerie des Bains‑Douches: Rotating art exhibits and pop‑ups

Souvenir ideas: local olive oil, dried herbs, natural skincare, and regional wines.

Antibes for Families

Safe pedestrian zones, shallow beaches, and fun museums make Antibes ideal for kids.

• Antibes Land: Seasonal amusement park
• Marineland: Marine park with dolphins, sea lions, and aquariums
• Beach Play: Plage de la Salis and Plage du Ponteil offer calm waters
• Picasso Museum: Kid‑friendly discovery paths

Many restaurants have kid menus, high chairs, and shaded terraces. Apartments and villas offer extra space.

Free Things to Do in Antibes

Traveling on a budget? Enjoy unforgettable experiences at no cost.

• Explore Old Town: Wander cobblestone alleys and historic architecture
• Promenade Amiral de Grasse: Seafront path with panoramic views
• Beach Time: Plage de la Gravette and Salis are free
• Fort Carré Viewpoint: Great photo spot from the harbor
• Open‑Air Art: Public sculptures and murals around town

When to Visit Antibes

Best time: May to September for beach days and festivals. Spring and early fall balance great weather with fewer crowds.

Summer is peak season—lively but hot. Spring (April–June) and early fall (September–mid‑October) offer warm sun and blooming gardens. Winter is mild and peaceful with lower rates.

Weather in Antibes Throughout the Year

Antibes enjoys a Mediterranean climate with 300+ sunny days annually.

Tip: Even in winter, pack sunglasses and light layers.

Map & Layout Tips

Antibes is walkable. Use the train for easy day trips to Cannes or Nice. Most attractions cluster around Old Town, the port, and the beach promenade.

Rent a bike for Juan‑les‑Pins or Cap d’Antibes. Taxis are available but pricey. Local buses (Envibus) are reliable and economical.

For airport transfers, ride‑hailing exists, but buses are the best budget option. A 1‑day pass is around €1.50. Trains from Gare d’Antibes reach Monaco in under an hour.

How to Get to Antibes

Antibes is easy to reach whether you’re flying into the Côte d’Azur or already exploring the Riviera.

• By Train: TGV and TER service to Gare d’Antibes; ~25 min from Nice, ~15 from Cannes.
• By Air: Fly to Nice Côte d’Azur (NCE), 17 km away; shuttle, taxi, or train via Nice Saint‑Augustin.
• By Car: A8 autoroute, exit 44; garages like Parking Pré‑des‑Pêcheurs.
• By Bus: Envibus connects Antibes, Juan‑les‑Pins, and nearby villages.

Antibes Nightlife & Evening Ideas

As the sun sets, enjoy wine bars, beach clubs, and moonlit walks.

• Le Gusto Wine Bar: Cozy spot with a great French selection
• Pam Pam (Juan‑les‑Pins): Colorful cocktails and live music
• Jazz à Juan: Many venues host weekly jazz outside festival dates
• Promenade Amiral de Grasse: Romantic seafront stroll

Tip: Summer hours stretch past midnight; Juan‑les‑Pins is livelier late-night, central Antibes is atmospheric and low‑key.

Local Events & Seasonal Festivals

From jazz to yachting and winter festivities, Antibes sparkles year‑round.

• Jazz à Juan: Mid‑July, outdoor concerts by the sea
• Antibes Art Fair: April, collectors from across Europe
• Christmas Market: Early December to New Year, crafts and food

Plan Your Visit to Antibes

Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a solo escape, Antibes delivers unforgettable moments—from fresh seafood lunches to sunset coastal walks.

Ready to explore Antibes? Start crafting your perfect itinerary.

Antibes Travel Itinerary Ideas

Make the most of your time, whether you have one day or three.

1‑Day Itinerary

• Morning: Vieil Antibes and Marché Provençal
• Afternoon: Picasso Museum and lunch by the marina
• Evening: Sunset at Port Vauban, dinner in Old Town

2‑Day Itinerary

• Day 1: As above
• Day 2: Cap d’Antibes coastal walk + Plage de la Salis

3‑Day Itinerary

• Add Juan‑les‑Pins, Fort Carré, and a nearby vineyard tasting

Pro Tip: Use Antibes as a base for day trips to Nice, Cannes, or Monaco by train.

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