Things to do in French Riviera (Cote d’Azur)

The French Riviera or Cote d’Azur called in French is one of the most glamorous places in the world, attracting the rich and famous crowd as well as curious travelers from all over the world.

This place is known for its gorgeous beaches, high profile events, casinos, and chic vacation options. There are so many things to do in French Riviera that you would have to pay a few visits to do it all. One of the things this area is famous for is the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix.

But even if you’re not planning to visit these luxurious events, check out the list below to find some tips and ideas on what to do in French Riviera.

Nice, Cote d’Azur. Unique places

Nice is one of the gorgeous cities not only in Europe but in the entire world. It is impossible not to enjoy wandering around the narrow streets of the old town and admire the astonishing 18th-century buildings and squares.

The Unique legendary Promenade des Anglais has been a famous seaside walking area from centuries ago. It is one of the most prestigious places in Nice, where you can enjoy the sea view and dine at one of the most sophisticated restaurants in the area. It is also recommended to check out the fruit and flower market at Cours Salaya at the foot of the hill to feel the ambiance and the city vibes of Nice.

It goes without saying that you shouldn’t leave Nice without visiting Place Massena and the Parc de la Colline du Chateau, which is located between the port and the old town and offers some of the most magnificent panoramic views of the city of Nice.

This city is truly one of the most unique and popular places in French Riviera and is worth visiting either for beach vacations or simply to explore and enjoy your time.

Nice Cote d'Azur
Nice image by: RD LH from Pixabay

Visit Monaco

Monaco is another splendid and glamorous French city, the hotspot for ultra-wealthy visitors. It is officially called the Principality of Monaco, a sovereign city-state, country and microstate on the French Riviera in Western Europe. Monaco stands out with its top-level accommodation options and hotels, casinos, and chic beaches.

Place du Casino, Palais des Princes, and the geometric mosaic of sandy apartment blocks are some of the most prominent places to visit in Monaco. Monaco is a city, after all, we associate with Princess Grace, iconic Grand Prix, and the maritime explorer Jacques Cousteau, the director of the cliff-side Oceanographic Museum. Monaco Ville, also called Le Rocher, is part of Monaco, where you can witness the original old town from centuries ago; narrow lanes, medieval cobblestones, and the exquisite sea view.

It is surely worth experiencing Monaco’s unique food court located near the place d’Armes market. Taste some fresh pasta and the traditional Niçois socca.

Monaco French Riviera
Monaco image by: MARIE SCHNEIDER from pixabay

La Croisette, Cannes

Cannes is another lovely city and a tourist hotspot in French Riviera. It offers some of the best beaches in French Riviera and excellent weather conditions. La Croisette is one of the most popular beaches on the Cote d’Azur, covered with soft golden sand and lavished with gentle wavy waters.

Even if you’re planning to visit Cannes for summer vacations, just strolling around the promenade by the Mediterranean would certainly be pleasant. When in Cannes, head to the Vieux Port where all the luxury yachts are parked. One of the most iconic characteristics of Cannes is, of course, the Cannes Film Festival happening every May.

If you happen to visit Cannes in May, make sure to stop by the Palais des Festivals et des Congres to see all the stars passing through the red carpet.

Cannes French Riviera
Cannes image by: Erich Westendarp from pixabay

Visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in St. Jean Cap Ferrat.

One of the most prominent sites in Cote d’Azur is the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, located near the top of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. This exquisite villa was built at the beginning of the 20th century for Beatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild, a member of a rich banking family.

The purpose of the villa was mainly to house Beatrice’s art collection. It was used for literary gatherings, art collectors’ presentations, and music. Its’ incredible location opens views to the Mediterranean from three sides. The pink-washed façade is of the neo-classical style. The interior of the villa is indescribably beautiful and chic with a number of valuable art, decorative items, and antique furniture. The carpets in the Grand Salon were commissioned by Louis XIV and Louis XV.

There are nine gardens around the villa with different themes; Japanese garden, rose garden with pink flowers, tropical gardens with cascading fountains. As a matter of fact, these gardens are listed as one of France’s “Jardins Remarquables.” If you happen to visit St. Jean Cap Ferrat in May, don’t miss out on the rose and plant festival.

Gamble at the Casino Monte-Carlo

Even though Monaco is small but it’s known for its glamour and luxury. Many arrive in Monaco specifically for the casino and gambling at Monte-Carlo. It goes without saying that the casino itself is magnificent and is worth simply visiting it. It was built in 1863 by Charles Garnier, the same architect of the Paris Opera House.

This incredible building stands proudly overlooking Monaco and the sea. The interior of the casino is a pure definition of chic with a significant entrance hall with high columns, red and gold walls decorated with frescoes. The biggest hall is called the Salle Garnier and was the setting for the famous Ballets Russes, which was founded in St. Petersburg in 1909 and installed in Monte Carlo in 1917.

Walking through this hall, many other halls open up, equipped with various casino equipment such as roulette and blackjack, where you can make fortunes or lose everything. If you’re ready to invest big amounts on gambling, you’re welcome to private halls called Salles Privees. It is worth exploring the surroundings of the casino, the beautiful gardens with defined lawns, and incredible flowers, which lead to Monaco’s high-class shopping area.

Casino Monte Carlo
Monte Carlo image by: unserekleinemaus from pixabay

When planning a trip to the French Riviera, expect to experience lots of luxury and glamour in its iconic cities such as Cannes, Nice, and Monaco.

These cities not only stand out with their chic lifestyle but also with their incredible architecture, art, and cultural heritage. The promenades along the shores of the Mediterranean offer some of the most exciting activities in French Riviera. 

One of the most exciting things to do in Cote d’Azur is, of course, visiting Monte Carlo casino not only to gamble but simply explore the exquisite interior of this epic building. It is surely worth visiting the French Riviera to experience glamour incomparable to anywhere else in the world.

Map of French Riviera

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