French Riviera: How to See the Best in Just 1 Week

How to See the Best of the French Riviera in 1 Week

The south of France, and especially the French Riviera, has always been one of my favorite parts of France. Long before Tina and I were exploring it together, I was coming here with my parents, and it’s a place that’s only grown more special over time.

The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, is everything you imagine it to be — sun‑drenched coastlines, postcard‑perfect villages, and that mix of history and glamour you don’t find anywhere else. It’s no wonder it has been drawing travelers, artists, and dreamers for centuries.

In this guide, we’ll share how to make the most of one week on the French Riviera. From the sparkle of Monaco and Cannes to the charm of Nice, the calm of Hyères, and the golden beaches of Antibes, this itinerary blends the must‑see icons with quieter moments.

Whether you’re coming for the nightlife, the art, or just to slow down by the sea, the French Riviera has a way of making you want to stay longer.

About the French Riviera

Let’s start this 1‑week French Riviera itinerary with a bit of background.

The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, stretches along the Mediterranean in southeastern France, a coastline that has been inspiring travelers for centuries. It’s known for its glamorous beach resorts like Saint‑Tropez and Cannes, and of course, the tiny principality of Monaco — but there’s so much more than just luxury.

Originally a health retreat for European elites in the 18th century, the Riviera later became a magnet for aristocrats, artists, and the “jet set” of the 1960s. Today, it still has that allure, with scenic drives, coastal villages, and sun‑soaked promenades linking one postcard‑perfect spot to another. It’s the kind of place where history, culture, and seaside bliss all meet — the perfect setting for a week you won’t forget.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Moving Around the French Riviera

Getting around the French Riviera is pretty easy, but how you do it really shapes your trip.

The best option is to rent a car. The French Riviera is full of little villages, scenic detours, and hilltop roads you just won’t reach by train or bus. Driving lets you stop wherever you feel like it — at a hidden beach, a random viewpoint, or a vineyard — and that freedom is part of the fun here.

That said, public transport works well between the bigger towns like Nice, Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco. Trains run frequently along the coast and buses can get you a bit further inland, but they can be slow and less frequent, especially on weekends.

If you don’t want to drive the whole trip, you could mix it up: base yourself in Nice, use trains for the main towns, and rent a car for a couple of days to explore the smaller villages and backroads. It’s the best of both worlds.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

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.

Where to stay in Nice: (€):  Aparthotel AMMI Vieux Nice,  (€€):  Palais Saleya Boutique Hôtel, (€€€): Hotel Le Negresco

Read: 23 Best things to do in Nice

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.

Day 3: Visit Menton, Monaco and Eze

Start your day by driving to Eze, a beautiful hilltop village. Then spend the rest of 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.

Where to stay in Monaco : (€):  Boutique Hotel Miramar, (€€):  Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, (€€€): Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo

Read: 15 Best things to do in Monaco

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.

Our favourite accommodations in Saint-Tropez:  (€):  Windward,  (€€):  Hotel la Ponche, (€€€): Maison Panthère – Luxury Harbour Residence

Read: 15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SAINT-TROPEZ

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

Our favourite accommodations in Saint-Tropez:  (€):  Windward,  (€€):  Hotel la Ponche, (€€€): Maison Panthère – Luxury Harbour Residence

Read: 12 MUST-SEE VILLAGES ON THE FRENCH RIVIERA

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.