How to See the Best of the French Riviera in 1 Week
The south of France and especially the French Riviera is one of the best places in all of France. Long before we were together with Tina, I was already going there with my parents.
The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, is the epitome of charm, glamour, and Mediterranean beauty. With its stunning coastline, picturesque villages, and a blend of history and luxury, it’s no wonder this region has captivated travelers for centuries.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the most of one week in the French Riviera. From exploring the glitz of Monaco and Cannes to strolling through the charming streets of Nice, soaking in the tranquility of Hyères, and basking on the golden beaches of Antibes, this itinerary covers all the must-see spots.
Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, artistic inspiration, or simply a relaxing escape by the sea, the French Riviera has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your sunglasses, and let’s dive into the perfect one week on the French Riviera!
Table of Contents
Mapping the day
About the French Riviera
Let’s start this 1 week on the French Riviera with some information. The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, stretches along the Mediterranean coast in southeastern France, renowned for its glamorous beach resorts like Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and the independent microstate of Monaco. Originally a health retreat in the 18th century, it later drew aristocrats, artists, and the 1960s “jet set.” Today, it remains a beloved holiday destination, with scenic paths linking charming coastal towns and villages.
Moving Around the French Riviera
The best way to move around the French Riviera is by car. Some tours can be taken around Nice and Monaco, however, to get to the nearby town and villages, a rental car would be great to have. For our rental, we always use rentalcars.com and always had the best experience ever.
Stay connected
One of our least favorite things to do when we arrive in a new country is to have to figure out how to get a good sim card. From finding where is the shop, in the airport, or the city center? To deal with the registrations, giving ID and even finding which operator is the best… Well, it’s a true headache.
That’s why, we started using Airalo, for countries where our sim card doesn’t have free coverage. Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that gives you access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards) for 200+ countries/regions to be connected anywhere in the world the second you land.
In France, you can get an Airalo eSim of 5GB for 13,5€ or 10GB for 22€. Airalo has a discount going on:
- New customer: Save 15% on eSIMs at Airalo.com. Use Code: NEWTOAIRALO15 (7/1 – 12/31/2024)
- Existing one: Save 10% on eSIMs at Airalo.com. Use Code: AIRALOESIM10 (7/1 – 12/31/2024)
French Riviera itinerary Overview
Here’s a day-by-day guide to exploring the stunning Côte d’Azur:
- Day 1: Arrive in Nice – Settle in and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal gem.
- Day 2: Discover Nice – Spend the day wandering the Old Town, the Promenade des Anglais, and nearby viewpoints.
- Day 3: Visit Menton and Monaco – Explore Menton’s colorful streets before diving into the glamour of Monaco.
- Day 4: Antibes and Cannes – Enjoy the charm of Antibes’ old town and the luxury of Cannes.
- Day 5: Grimaud, Saint-Tropez, Pampelonne Beach, and Cap Camarat – A perfect mix of history, beaches, and breathtaking coastal views.
- Day 6: Ramatuelle, Gassin, and Hyères – Explore picturesque villages and immerse yourself in the Riviera’s timeless beauty.
- Day 7: Return – Take one last look at the Riviera’s azure waters before heading home.
Each day offers a unique slice of French Riviera magic, making this a trip to remember!
French Riviera Itinerary day by day
Day 1: Arrive in Nice
Arrive in Nice, the heart of the French Riviera. Transfer to your accommodation in the city center and go out for a first strol around the old Nice. End your day with dinner at a seaside restaurant, savouring classic Provençal dishes.
Read More: 23 Best things to do in Nice
Where to stay in Nice: (€): Aparthotel AMMI Vieux Nice, (€€): Palais Saleya Boutique Hôtel, (€€€): Hotel Le Negresco
Day 2: Discover Nice
Start your day by visiting the flower market for a unique cultural experience, continue with a visit to Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for panoramic views of the city and coastline. Then stroll around the old town and along the Promenade des Anglais, enjoying the stunning sea views. If the weather allows, spend some time at Plage Beau Rivage, relaxing on the beach or swimming in the Mediterranean.
Read More: 23 Best things to do in Nice
Where to stay in Nice: (€): Aparthotel AMMI Vieux Nice, (€€): Palais Saleya Boutique Hôtel, (€€€): Hotel Le Negresco
Day 3: Visit Menton and Monaco
Spend the morning in Menton: Known as the “Pearl of France,” stroll through its citrus-filled gardens and pastel-colored streets.
Then, the afternoon in Monaco: Visit the Prince’s Palace, wander the Exotic Garden, and stop by the iconic Monte Carlo Casino. Enjoy dinner in Monaco overlooking the harbor.
Read More: 15 Best things to do in Monaco
Where to stay in Monaco : (€): Boutique Hotel Miramar, (€€): Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, (€€€): Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo
Day 4: Antibes and Cannes
On your way to the west, make a stop in Antibes, visit the Marché Provençal, where you can sample local cheeses, meats, and fresh produce. Next, visit the Musée Picasso in the stunning Château Grimaldi to admire both the art and the historic setting.
In the afternoon in Cannes: Stroll along the Croisette Boulevard, visit the Palais des Festivals, and relax at one of the sandy beaches. End your day with dinner in Cannes, enjoying the lively nightlife.
Where to stay in Canes : (€): Staybridge Suites – Cannes Centre, an IHG Hotel, (€€): Five Seas by Inwood Hotels (€€€): Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel
Day 5: Grimaud, Saint-Tropez, Pampelonne Beach, and Cap Camarat
Start your day by visiting Grimaud, a charming medieval village with stunning views of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Grimaud is only a quick stop, so you will still have plenty of time.
Head to Saint-Tropez, famous for its old port, luxury boutiques, and vibrant atmosphere. After lunch head to Cap Camarat, a serene spot with breathtaking coastal trails.
Finish the day by relaxing at Pampelonne Beach, known for its golden sands and beach clubs.
Read More: 15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SAINT-TROPE
Our favourite accommodations in Saint-Tropez: (€): Windward, (€€): Hotel la Ponche, (€€€): Maison Panthère – Luxury Harbour Residence
Day 6: Ramatuelle, Gassin, and Hyères
Spend the visiting old village, first with Ramatuelle, a picturesque hilltop village with cobblestone streets and incredible views. Next stop will be Gassin, another charming village with panoramic vistas of the Riviera.
End your day in Hyères, visiting its medieval old town and on your way back to Saint-Tropez, stop at the Domaine du Rayol, The Mediterranean Gardens
Read More: 12 MUST-SEE VILLAGES ON THE FRENCH RIVIERA
Our favourite accommodations in Saint-Tropez: (€): Windward, (€€): Hotel la Ponche, (€€€): Maison Panthère – Luxury Harbour Residence
Day 7: Return
Depending on your schedule, enjoy a relaxing morning walk along the coastline or indulge in one last coffee at a Riviera café. And then head to Nice Airport. Or if you have more time, you may continue toward Marseille.
It is not the destination where you end up but the mishaps and memories you create along the way
