Are you planning a trip to France? No holiday here would be complete without traveling along the French Riviera in the south.
The French Rivera is a term of coastline that stretches for almost 600 miles. It is known for being one of the go-to travel destinations not just in France, but in all of Europe. It encompasses many significant destinations such as Nice and Monte Carlo, so there is something for everyone.
One of the benefits of the French Riviera is that you can go whenever you want - the weather will always be pretty good. Even in winter, the coldest it gets is about 15 degrees Celcius. It means that you can book your trip out of peak season, but still have a fantastic time.
Here are some visits you need to make on your French Riviera excursion, to make the most out of the Mediterranean coastline:
Mónaco
Mónaco is an independent country and the second smallest country in the world. In just over 200-hectares, you can find stunning white beaches, palaces, and cathedrals. The country is home to one of the most famous oceanographic museums in the world. You can also get up close and personal with the local aquatic wildlife in their aquarium, which is one of the oldest in the world.
Saint Tropéz
St. Tropéz is a popular tourist destination, and it’s not hard to see why. St. Tropéz began as a small fishing village, but the gorgeous sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters became a magnet for people all over the globe. Relax during the day, then wait for the town to come alive at night. There are plenty of great bars along the waterfront that offer great food, music, drinks, and company - all that you can ask for in a holiday.
Cannes
Cannes is often known to the public for hosting the annual Cannes film festival. Outside this flurry of activity, the city is also known as the economic hub of the French Riviera. It’s a very modern and chic spot, with many things to do along the mile-long promenade. One of the things you cannot miss here is the exceptional dining experience. They offer some of France’s most exquisite cuisine, and a chance to feel like a star for a night. If that’s a little out of your budget, you can always stop off at the fresh food markets, which will also keep you full of French goodness.
Théoule-Sur-Mer
This small village has everything you need to enjoy the French Riviera, without needing to visit a large city. Built onto a rockface, this gives you plenty of crevasses to explore, if you need a break from the blinding blue ocean. The village also has its palace and castle, despite being so small. If you’re into hiking, some trails begin here and wind their way into the surrounding mountains, so that you always have a new route to take.
Nice
Nice is the tourist capital of the French Riviera, but it’s hard to visit the region without making a stop here. It is a spot to indulge in some retail therapy, as the cobbled streets are lined with designer boutiques full of the latest fashions. If that doesn’t interest you, there are also plenty of museums full of art and history to browse, before filling up on coffee and croissants at one of the delicious bakeries on every corner.
Eze
After you’ve relaxed in Nice, you can easily hop over to Eze, which is only 8 miles away. Perched in the mountains, it gives a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding land and sea. One of the main must-dos, when you arrive in Eze, is visiting their botanical gardens. These are unique, not only for the flora that grows inside but for their isolated resting spot. If you haven’t already built tired of the beach, Eze also offers some stunning coastline that is perfect for swimming or relaxing on the sand.
Menton
If you need a break from the beach but don’t want to venture too far, then have a rest in Menton, also known as Sainte Agnes. It is also known as Europe’s highest coastal village, and it offers visitors some of the best views of the coast from so high up. At 800 meters above sea level, you can also see parts of Italy. Aside from the sights, one of the main draws to this village is the impressive hiking trails that it boasts, twisting into the Southern Alps.
No matter where you go, the French Riviera will not disappoint. Whether you are drawn to the beaches or the history of the region, this is a destination that everyone can enjoy. The southern coast of France is teeming with life, and a million opportunities to experience it. There is so much to see and do; make sure you plan with time in advance, to prevent missing out on anything.
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