Best things to do in the French Riviera

The Côte d’Azur, internationally known as the French Riviera, is far more than a simple seaside destination — it’s a legend, a postcard-perfect setting that has, for over a century, drawn artists, writers, celebrities and travelers in search of Mediterranean light and serenity. Nestled between the deep blue of the sea and the foothills of the Alps, this sun-drenched stretch of coastline offers a patchwork of landscapes: from beaches and dramatic cliffs to rolling hills scented with olive groves, mimosa fields, and charming hilltop villages with cobbled streets.

Its exceptionally mild climate, with over 300 days of sunshine a year, makes it a coveted destination in every season. In early spring, the hills are carpeted in golden mimosas, while summer brings a vibrant, festive atmosphere to the yacht-filled harbors and sandy beaches. Autumn lingers gently, offering balmy temperatures and spectacular sunsets over the Mediterranean. Even in winter, the Riviera retains its allure, as Christmas markets appear beneath the palm trees and the snow-dusted peaks of the hinterland contrast beautifully with the shimmering sea.

The Côte d’Azur is also a land steeped in history and tradition. Since ancient times, its natural wealth and gentle climate have drawn settlers. The Romans built numerous villas here, with remarkable remains still visible today in places like Fréjus and Cimiez. In the 19th century, the British and Russian aristocracy made it their favored winter retreat, erecting grand palaces and opulent hotels that continue to lend certain seaside resorts their distinctive Belle Époque charm.

Today, the Riviera enchants with its rich diversity. Along the coast, famed destinations like Cannes, Saint-Tropez, Antibes and Nice compete in elegance with their private beaches, legendary casinos and iconic palaces. Nature lovers will find untamed beauty in the Estérel and Mercantour mountain ranges, where pine-covered slopes overlook the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, the hinterland, more discreet and unspoiled, reveals an authentic Provençal soul, with its hilltop villages, lavender fields and bustling markets perfumed with olives and wild honey.

There’s no risk of boredom here — the Côte d’Azur offers an astonishing variety of experiences. From lounging on blonde-sand or pebbled beaches, to sailing around the Lérins or Porquerolles islands, hiking the coastal paths or alpine valleys, and exploring world-class museums in Nice, Monaco or Grasse. Food lovers, too, will find endless delights, from traditional Niçoise socca and Marseille’s famous bouillabaisse to the candied fruits of Apt and the fragrant wines of Bellet and Bandol.

Ultimately, the Côte d’Azur embodies a lifestyle all its own, where time seems to slow down between a terrace lunch overlooking the sea, a stroll through the shady lanes of a medieval village, and an evening apéritif at sunset. It’s a destination where refinement, simplicity and the sweetness of life coexist beautifully, promising unforgettable moments in every season.