Best Spots to Enjoy the French Riviera

Looking for the best spot to enjoy the sea? Planning to spend a week experiencing the full charm of the French Riviera? Look no further! Nice, Eze, Antibes, Menton, Monaco, and Cannes are like pearls strung along the same coastline, offering stunning views, convenient transportation, and a perfect mix of sunshine, blue seas, cliffs, and beaches. My personal experience: a week is more than enough to fully explore these six destinations. Especially during the sunny mornings and evenings, the serene beauty is truly healing.

Recommended Attractions

1. Nice
The classic gateway to the French Riviera, with the Promenade des Anglais and the colorful alleys of the Old Town providing endless photo opportunities! Tip: For dinner, choose a restaurant near the Promenade des Anglais for a perfect combination of sea views and delicious food. Most attractions are concentrated in the city center, making it easy to explore on foot.

2. Eze
A cliffside medieval village exuding 100% French romance. Highly recommend climbing to the top of the Jardin Exotique d’Eze for a panoramic view of the Mediterranean. On a clear day, the sea and sky blend seamlessly, offering a truly therapeutic experience. The village also features the Fragonard Perfume Museum, which offers free entry and is a great place to pick up some souvenirs.

3. Antibes
A charming blend of harbor, old town, and beaches. The coastline is incredibly relaxing. The Pablo Picasso Museum is worth a visit, and the old town is full of authentic French Riviera vibes. The city is small, so take your time to stroll around and enjoy a coffee for a chill experience.

4. Menton
A vibrant town known for its colorful buildings, gardens, and lemons. Take a morning stroll along the coast to the old town to soak in the laid-back lifestyle of the French Riviera. The annual Lemon Festival is spectacular, but even on regular days, the town is delightful.

5. Monaco
A mix of luxury and charm, offering more than just racing and casinos. The Prince's Palace, harbor, and Monaco Gardens are all stunning. Best visited in the afternoon to experience the sophisticated vibe of this small country. Be sure to check the opening hours of the Prince's Palace in advance.

6. Cannes
Known for its film festival, Cannes boasts upscale beaches and a chic atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk along La Croisette, where you'll find plenty of cafes and restaurants. The best time to visit is during the evening. If you're visiting during the film festival, make sure to book your tickets and accommodations in advance.

Travel Tips
Although these six cities may seem spread out, the entire coastline can easily be explored within a week. Transportation options include TER trains or buses, with travel times between cities ranging from 30 minutes to an hour. The coastal scenery under the sunny skies is incredibly soothing, so don't forget your sunglasses, sunscreen, and swimwear!

Food Recommendations
Nice: Socca (chickpea pancake), Salade Niçoise.
Antibes: Seafood pasta, seasonal seafood.
Cannes: French desserts, a wide variety of restaurants.
Menton: Lemon tart is a must-try.
Eze: Herb chicken, French escargot.
Monaco: High-end restaurants near the Prince's Palace, but keep an eye on your budget.

Transportation Guide
You can take the TER train from Nice to reach Eze, Antibes, Menton, and Cannes within 30 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day. Monaco is also easily accessible by bus or train. If you're staying in Nice or Monaco, a morning departure and afternoon return make for a relaxed day trip. It's recommended to download the trip.com app to check and purchase transportation tickets, as it offers a user-friendly interface in Chinese.