The most beautiful places to visit on the Côte d’Azur

When we talk about a glamorous destination, we often think of the Côte d’Azur. Known to English speakers as the “French Riviera”, this Mediterranean coast has been trodden by the biggest stars and the most illustrious painters in the world. There is a sort of dichotomy in this region between the festive and glittery atmosphere of the jet-set and an extremely relaxing aura, with its incredible natural landscapes.

The Côte d’Azur stretches from Menton to St-Tropez, via Monaco. Its iconic blue sky, its beaches and its nearby mountains make it a unique place in France. There are so many beautiful things to see that it would be impossible to name them all. However, to make it easier for you, we have put together a list of the most beautiful places to visit on the Côte d’Azur.

Cannes

Everyone knows the city for its film festival which brings together the world’s biggest stars of the seventh art every year. However, the city has a lot to offer apart from this event. The old town, which we call “le Suquet” is particularly charming, with its streets crowded with restaurants and artisans. At the very top, you can admire the bay and the port, then take a tour of the Museum of World Explorations and its temporary exhibitions. The seaside, which we call “la Croisette” is also a place to see with its beach restaurants and luxurious hotels. And if you prefer calm and nature, the Lérins islands are only 15 minutes away by boat: St-Honorat Island is only inhabited by monks, it is the ideal place for those looking for tranquility! As for history lovers, they will find what they are looking for on Île Ste-Marguerite with the Iron Mask Museum, where this famous unknown prisoner was incarcerated for eleven years in the 17th century.

The village of Èze

If you like medieval villages and breathtaking panoramas, this is an absolutely unmissable place ! Perched on the top of a hill facing the Mediterranean Sea, Èze is one of the gems of the Côte d’Azur. The view of the village is extraordinary and you can admire the bay which goes from Cap d’Ail to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. The small, narrow cobbled streets will immerse you in a Provençal and medieval atmosphere, with many local artisan shops. Finally, at the very top of the village are exotic gardens from which you can admire a 180-degree panoramic view of the entire Mediterranean coast! A place to visit absolutely !

Monaco

If you have prepared your best strategies and you have mastered bluffing, why not go play poker in one of Monaco’s legendary casinos? The small landlocked principality by the sea is certainly one of the best-known destinations on the Côte d’Azur! And even though this city-state only extends over 2 square kilometers, it is full of wonders to visit. If you want to admire the most beautiful boats in the world, why not take a stroll around the port with its luxurious yachts? For those who prefer historical visits, the Palace of the Princes with its many treasures is particularly exciting! And finally, for all science and nature lovers, you can visit the oceanographic museum or the exotic gardens which are must-see places at Monaco.

Nice

It’s THE big city on the Côte d’Azur! With its beaches, its palaces and its Mediterranean charm, the city is particularly known for its seaside and its Promenade des Anglais where pedestrians, bicycles and rollerbladers walk every day. The magnificent Belle Epoque buildings add a historic touch to these idyllic landscapes, making Nice one of the region’s flagship destinations. For a touch of authenticity, don’t hesitate to take a stroll around Cours Saleya, an open market surrounded by buildings of all colors, where you can taste all the local specialties. Also don’t forget to climb the castle hill, because the panorama of the sea and the city of Nice is sublime!

And you, what is your favorite place on the Côte d’Azur?