Known as the Côte d’Azur, this stretch of Mediterranean coastline in South East France draws visitors like a moth to a flame. The varied culture on offer appeals to all and a French Riviera road trip is the best way to experience the diversity. 310 days of sunshine per year, together with 71 miles of coastline and beaches, creates a honeypot for tourists. Not just your average tourists either, but those of a high calibre. It’s worth noting that because of this, the beauty of the area can come with a high price-tag.
Depending on how many stops you wish to take, and how much you’d like to explore, plan to spend between 3 days to a week on your French Riviera road trip. You may also be interested in reading ‘Zest tips for an epic road trip’.
Villefranche-sur-Mer. Photo by: Enrico De Vita/Adobe Stock
Area
There is much debate over just how far the French Riviera stretches. It extends from the Italian border to Saint-Tropez, or as far as Cassis for some.
Historically, many figures of royalty have been known to top up their tan along the beaches here, such as Queen Victoria and King Edward VII. The area was once even prescribed as medicine. Artists and writers through the ages have found their inspiration here, from Pablo Picasso to Aldous Huxley.
It’s popular for yachting and cruising with the many marinas hugging the coast a reflection of this. The variety of culture is also a big attraction with over 200 museums and galleries lining cobbled streets.
Nice is the largest city in the area. It houses the nearest (and third busiest in France) airport- Nice Côte d’Azur.
Climate
The Mediterranean climate keeps summer days dry and hot, filled with sun. High temperatures in Nice in August reach an average of 28°C daily and 29°C in Toulon.
Winters are mild with frosts rarely occurring and snow fall is even less likely. Daily low temperatures in Nice in January average around 5°C and in Toulon around 6°C.
Rainfall is heavier here than in Paris but is spread over less days.
Peak season
Unsurprisingly, high season falls in the summer between May and September, with activity peaking in July and August. If travelling during these months, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance as it’s sure to book up fast. Prices fluctuate throughout the year in-line with expected visitor numbers.
Your French Riviera road trip
The planned French Riviera road trip below covers highlights of the coastline from Saint-Tropez to the Italian border, with a couple of excursions inland. Collect your hire car from Nice Airport and set off on your own French Riviera road trip!
Screenshot from Google Maps of the proposed French Riviera road trip.
Saint-Tropez
A haven for the rich and famous, this town receives over 100,000 visitors per day in the height of summer. Despite this regular surge of interest, a natural look is retained without appearing over-developed. You can grab some great mountain views while you’re here.
Fréjus
This town was the first port to be used for military purposes of the Roman Mediterranean. It was first discovered by Julius Caesar in 49BC and there are many Roman ruins from this time. It has one of the largest Gallic amphitheatres among other fascinating features.
Cannes
This hotspot for celeb-spotting, especially around the time of the Cannes Film Festival, was once a fishing village. Treat yourself in one of the many boutiques or relax on golden sand fringed by palm trees. Take a short ferry trip to the nearby Lérins Islands. Learn more about shipwrecks and underwater discoveries in the Museum of the Sea on Ile St Marguerite. A stark contrast to Cannes, the quieter island of St Honorat is home only to monks. Walk amongst their vineyards and delight in the unique restaurant near the pier, La Tonnelle, for a real taste of French cuisine.
The monastery on St Honorat. Photo by: Arthur R./Adobe Stock
Grasse
Known as the perfume capital of the world, Grasse is worth a brief stop on your trip. Visit some of the greatest perfumeries, and grab a free tour. Learn more about the processes in place and purchase delightful perfumes to take home. Driving through the town you’ll also see fields of lavender to marvel at. At the beginning of August, La Jasminade or Fête du Jasmin hits, marking the start of the jasmine harvest, which sees a parade through the town with live music and dancers.
Antibes
Plan to spend your morning exploring the markets of Antibes, sampling some great local delicacies, before getting your bite of culture for the day. In 1946, Pablo Picasso spent 6 months at Château Grimaldi which is now the Musée Picasso. This is the first museum in the world to be dedicated to his life and work. Get up close and personal to original Picasso artwork.
St Paul De Vence
Stop awhile to appreciate the fairy-tale style architecture on offer here from this medieval town. Discover the many remaining pieces of the town’s original defensive structures. Take a detour inland to explore the Mercantour National Park (enable Google Translate if necessary), which is home to over 40,000 rock engravings at the foot of Mont Bégo.
Menton. Photo by: Boris Stroujko/Adobe Stock
Nice
This is the second most popular French city among tourists. Visit some of the many galleries, shops and cafes on offer. Sample true Nicoise cuisine and do a spot of people-watching. Take a stroll along the Promenade de Anglais (Walkway of the English) and relax under a stunning sunset. The Notre Dame Cathedral is a must-visit during your trip along with La Colline du Château (Castle Hill). Head to the highest point in the town for an incredible view – pack a picnic to relax in the park.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
All three corniches (roads cut into steep cliffs) that connect Nice to Italy run through this town. Drive the Grand Corniche, the highest of the three, for incredible views overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Due to the depth of the bay, the port here has had great significance over the years. It’s now the most visited port in France by cruise ships.
Monaco
This microstate has no income tax and low business taxes, making it a magnet for the super-rich. It hosts the Monaco Grand Prix each year which involves racing around the city streets. Walk through the Fontvieille district to witness the large collection of sculptures on display. Explore highlights such as Fort Antoine, Monaco Cathedral and the grand Monte-Carlo Casino.
Monte Carlo, Monaco. Photo by: grutfrut/Adobe Stock
Menton
This town harnesses all the natural beauty of the coastline but without the crowds. There are lots of boutiques to browse and eateries harness the best of French and Italian cuisine, being so close to the Italian border. If visiting in February, the Lemon Festival is a must for a fantastic parade.
Your French Riviera road trip
Collect your hire car from Nice Airport from the suppliers Goldcar, Keddy, Europcar, or Firefly. Alternatively, collect from Marseille Airport to easily traverse the length of the coastline.
Grab the Côte d’Azur card to make savings on attractions you’re planning to visit.
Don’t forget to check out the previous blog, ‘Zest tips for an epic road trip’.
Head over to our destination guide on France for more about the country, or read our driving and travel guides.
Have you travelled this part of the French coast before? What sights would you recommend to fellow travellers? Let us know what your highlights have been in the comments below.
Written by Jessica Juby.
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