French Riviera Travel Guide: Your Ultimate South of France Itinerary
Planning a girls' trip or summer vacation to the French Riviera? The South of France is filled with pastel-colored towns, beach clubs, luxury shopping, and picture-perfect coastal views. Whether you're spending a week exploring or just stopping by a few towns, here’s the ultimate Côte d'Azur itinerary to help you make the most of your trip.
Day 1–2: Explore Nice – the Perfect Base
Nice is the ideal home base for your French Riviera adventure. It’s centrally located, has a walkable Old Town, and easy train access to nearby towns.
Dinner at Le Plongeoir: This iconic restaurant is perched on stilts above the Mediterranean for a unique dining experience. Make your reservation ASAP.
Beach day at Ruhl Plage: One of Nice’s most well-known beach clubs with loungers and turquoise views. Make sure to get there at opening to reserve beach chairs and umbrellas on the water. Breakfast here was amazing.
Walk up to Castle Hill (Belvedere du Château): This is where you’ll get panoramic views of Nice and the coastline. Go at sunset for stunning photos. Make sure you check the horus for the elevator or you might get stuck hiking it.
Rooftop dinner at Bocca Nissa: A chic spot for modern Italian dishes and great vibes.
Cocktails with a view at Waka Bar: This laid-back rooftop is a great way to cap off your night right in the middle of Old Town.
Beachside dinner at Bocca Mar: Very chic dinimg along the water
Day 3: Menton – The Most Colorful Town
Known for its lemon festival and rainbow-colored buildings, Menton is about 40 minutes by train from Nice and absolutely worth the visit.
Stroll through Old Town: Every street is more photogenic than the last.
Admire Les Rampes Saint Michel: These dramatic staircases are iconic to Menton’s skyline.
Lunch at Pizzeria 430Gradi: Local favorite with a great seaside view.
Relax at the beach: Head to the jetties across from the beach for panoramic views of the town.
Dinner at Le Petite Cave: Intimate, local, and full of charm.
Day 4: Antibes – Art Meets Old World Charm
This historic town has beautiful views, quaint streets, and a strong connection to Picasso. Plus it’s only about a 30 minute train ride from Nice.
Explore Old Town Antibes: Wander the narrow alleys and check out local shops and cafés.
Visit the Picasso Museum: Located in the Château Grimaldi, it showcases works inspired by the town itself.
Lunch at Belles Rives: This beachfront restaurant is a peaceful place to soak up the views and enjoy fresh seafood.
Day 5 Morning: Villefranche-sur-Mer
Just a short Uber ride from Nice, this fishing village feels straight out of a postcard.
Rue Obscure: This hidden medieval passage beneath the town is one of its most fascinating features.
Chapelle Saint-Pierre: A tiny chapel covered in Jean Cocteau murals.
Boulevard Napoléon III viewpoint: Hike up for one of the best views of Villefranche and the bay.
Day 5 Afternoon: Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Combine Villefranche with nearby Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat for the perfect day just an Uber away.
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild: A pink palace with gardens inspired by different parts of the world. Admission is €18 and you can purchase online or onsite.
Paloma Beach: Featured in Emily in Paris, this is a dreamy, tucked-away cove to relax and swim.
Dinner at Plage de Passable: Waterfront dining with views of the bay and a romantic atmosphere.
Day 6: Saint-Tropez – Glamour on the Coast
You’ll need to book a ferry from Nice to get here, but it’s well worth the trip.
Designer shopping: Don’t forget your passport for duty-free splurging.
Visit the Louis Vuitton Café: Stylish, trendy, and very Instagram-worthy.
Admire the yachts at the port: The harbor is filled with luxury vessels and perfect for people watching.
Swim at Quai de la Pesquière: A hidden gem spot for a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
Dinner at Bistrot Sicilia: Chic Italian spot with great food and atmosphere.
Grab lunch at Senequier: Cute spot with a great view of the port.
Rooftop drinks at Sicilia: Great view of the port and very cutesy.
Day 7 Morning: Éze – A Hilltop Dream
This medieval cliffside village is over 4,000 years old. It was only a short Uber from Nice, just be prepared to walk a LOT of stairs here.
Le Jardin Exotique: Book the earliest ticket slot to beat the crowds and enjoy sweeping views of the coast.
Drinks at Chateau de la Chevre d’Or: A luxe stop for a quick drink with jaw-dropping views.
Lunch at Café du Jardin: Great food and an even better backdrop.
Day 7 Evening: Monaco – Glitz and Glam
Take a short Uber from Éze into Monaco to end your day with luxury. Reminder that Uber is banned in Monaco, so you can only be dropped off here, not picked up. On the way back to Nice, either walk to the border or take the train.
Point de Vue Port de Fontvieille: One of the best panoramic views of Monaco’s marina.
See Port Hercule: Walk around the area where the Monaco Grand Prix takes place.
Dinner at Giacomo Monaco: Elegant atmosphere and fresh cuisine.
Check out the Fairmont Hairpin: One of the most famous turns in Formula 1 racing.
Monte Carlo Casino: Dress up and try your luck at this iconic casino. You will need your passport if you want to go inside and you will need to pay a small fee.
Day 8: Cannes – Beach Clubs and Red Carpets
Wrap up your trip in style with a day in Cannes, my favorite spot on the French Riviera.
Walk along La Croisette: A beachfront promenade lined with designer shops and seaside views.
Lunch at the Carlton Cannes Beach Club: A classic Riviera experience, make your reservations online in advance and keep your eyes peeled for celebrities. Check out the hotel as well if you can.
Visit the Palais des Festivals: Home to the Cannes Film Festival and its famous red carpet.
La Guérite Beach Club: A MUST do is to reserve a 3:30 PM reservation here and plan to stay until closing. Access requires a private boat arranged in advance, but the party vibes and food are worth it. 1-2 days before the restaurant will reach out to schedule their transfer if you don’t have your own.
Final Tips
Stay in Nice and take day trips via train or Uber to explore surrounding towns.
Book restaurants and beach clubs in advance, especially during peak season.
Pack comfortable shoes for walking and a few elevated outfits for rooftop bars and upscale dining.
Bring comfortable sandals as most beaches are rocky instead of sand.
Bring your passport if you plan to shop luxury brands in Saint-Tropez or go inside the Monte Carlo Casino.
