5 min read…
Picture this: waking up to the sound of waves, the smell of fresh croissants, and endless merry days ahead. That was our life for three amazing days as we explored the stunning French Riviera, all while based in the beautiful city of Nice.
From the glitzy vibe of Monaco to the cosy charm of Villefranche-sur-Mer, the old-world feel of Eze, the starry streets of Cannes, and the artsy corners of Antibes, each place had something special to offer.
So, pack your bags, put on your sunnies, and come along as we share our fun-filled adventure on the Côte d’Azur. Whether you’re a travel pro or just looking for your next getaway, we’ve got plenty of stories and tips to get you excited for your own Riviera trip. Let’s get started!
What is the French Riviera?
The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur as the locals call it, is a glamorous stretch of coastline along the southeastern corner of France, kissing the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its azure waters, sun-soaked beaches, and a mix of charming villages and bustling cities, this region has long been a playground for artists, celebrities, and travellers seeking a slice of paradise.
From the glitz of Cannes and Monaco to the quaint allure of towns like Eze and Antibes, the French Riviera offers a little bit of everything for everyone. So, whether you’re here for the sun, the culture, or the cuisine, the Riviera promises an unforgettable experience.
Day 1: Discovering Nice
We touched down at Nice Airport, greeted by the breathtaking sight of turquoise waters framing the runway—a landing that felt like diving straight into the sea. With the sun shining at a pleasant 25 degrees, we couldn’t wait to start our adventure.
After checking in, we began our exploration at the stunning Russian-style Cathedral of St. Nicholas de Nice. For lunch, we savoured delicious Lebanese cuisine at the cosy Thym & Olives.
The afternoon was spent soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the Promenade des Anglais and the bustling Cours Saleya market. The beach vibes were infectious, with people playing football, volleyball, swimming in the warm waters, sunbathing, and leisurely strolling along the promenade.
As evening approached, we climbed Castle Hill to catch a mesmerising sunset. And of course, we couldn’t resist indulging in the famous Fenocchio ice creams—an absolute must-try while in Nice.
Day 2: Monaco – where the money flows
Easily the highlight of our trip! Our second day took us to Monaco, the second smallest country after the Vatican. When we think of Monaco, money and Monte Carlo come to mind—and it certainly lived up to that image. This tiny country deserves a full day to truly experience its charm.
We started with the Prince’s Palace and witnessed the changing of the guard, but our favourite stop was the Oceanarium. It’s not just home to an incredible collection of marine creatures; it’s also a palace-like structure perched along the seashore.
Of course, we couldn’t miss the iconic Monte Carlo Casino and the famous racing circuit—scenes we’d only ever seen on TV. The opulence was palpable, and it was surreal to witness the flow of wealth in this dazzling place.
Day 3: Cannes & Antibes
Our third day led us to Cannes and Antibes. Cannes, famed for its prestigious film festivals, felt more touristy and less charming than we expected. We wandered through open markets and shops, but found the Promenade des Anglais in Nice far superior. The restaurants in Cannes were just okay, nothing memorable.
Antibes, on the other hand, had a quaint village charm, perfect for a leisurely stroll. However, both places felt a bit dull without the sun shining brightly.
Day 4: Eze & Villefranche-sur-Mer
We spent our final day exploring the charming village of Eze, one of our favourites on the French Riviera. We began with a fascinating free tour of the Fragonard Perfumery, learning about the art of perfume-making.
Next, we strolled to the Jardin Exotique, a magical mountaintop garden filled with succulents and offering breathtaking ocean views. The light rain added to the fairytale atmosphere, enhancing Eze’s medieval charm.
On our way back, we stopped at Villefranche-sur-Mer, known as the Jewel of the French Riviera. Though we skipped Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Cap Ferrat, it’s definitely worth a visit if you have more time.
The French Riviera left us with sun-kissed memories, full hearts, and a longing to return. Be it the glamour, the history, or simply the joy of wandering through picturesque streets. Of course, we’ve barely scratched the surface. There are still gems like Grasse, with its world-famous perfumes, and the artistic haven of Saint-Paul-de-Vence waiting to be explored.
The Riviera’s magic lies in its endless variety, so there’s always something new to discover, no matter how many times you visit. Until next time, au revoir, Côte d’Azur—you’ve given us stories to cherish and dreams for our next adventure!
KaviNinja 