Curator’s statement
The French Riviera (or Cote d'Azur) is known for its luxurious beach clubs, glamorous hotels and fashion-forward visitors. Located on the Southeastern coast of France, its cities and villages attract aristocrats and celebrities from around the world, making Cote d'Azur an established holiday destination.
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Where to stay in the South of France
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Things to do in the South of France
For me, the best part about visiting the South of France is the short distance to each town or beach resort. We used Cannes as a home base and took day trips to Saint-Tropez, Eze, Saint Paul de Vence and Monaco over the course of four days. Each was only about an hour away! If you want a relaxing stay on the beach, I suggest staying in Cannes over Nice as Nice is the larger more touristy counterpart. The people-watching is incredible!
Cannes
You must stay at Hotel Martinez during your visit to Cannes. I have never experienced a more elaborate breakfast buffet, which is served in the hotel's stunning courtyard - it is truly unforgettable. The hotel has its own private beach club, but the entire strip is filled with a variety of beach chairs & restaurants if you want to venture outside of the hotel. Cannes may be known for its International Film Festival, but it's a beautiful place to relax on the beach or go shopping in between day trips.
Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez is a short ferry ride from Cannes and was my favorite place in the French Riviera for its charming streets and backdrops. The trip departs from Cannes harbor in the morning and takes just over an hour. While in Saint-Tropez, the main attractions are the Place des Lices, the Citadelle and the Annonciade Museum. There are also plenty of boutiques and restaurants to keep you entertained even though it's a tiny island.
Eze
Eze is a medieval village only about an hour from Cannes. Our hotel set us up with a private driver to take us for the day, which I highly recommend if you don't rent a car. Eze's old buildings and Mediterranean backdrop make you feel like you're on a movie set. At the top of the famous Nietzsche path, you will find the town's medieval fortress where you can take in the views of Jardin Exotique. From Eze, you can head over to Grasse and stop at Parfumerie Fragonard, the oldest parfumerie in the area. After a tour of how they make the perfumes, you can purchase your own, a great gift or souvenir!
Saint Paul de Vence
Saint Paul de Vence is another village under an hour from Cannes. You only need half a day there, as it's a tiny commune. We enjoyed strolling through the windy cobblestone streets and visiting its art galleries and sites: La Chapelle Folon, Fontaine de Saint Paul de Vence and Cimetière de Saint Paul de Vence.
Monaco
Monaco is the petite principality of glitz and glamour. An hour away from Cannes by car, the sights to see are the Prince’s Palace, Fort Antoine and Monaco Cathedral. Take some time to observe the luxurious yachts at the harbor and wrap up your trip with a spin at the Monte Carlo casino.
Nice
When visiting the French Riviera, you will most likely fly into or out of Nice, the largest city on the coast. Start with a climb up to La Colline du Château (Castle Hill) to see panoramic views of the Baie des Anges, Old Town, Nice's boardwalk and the city's varied and vibrant architecture. Spend some time in Nice's Old Town, a maze of narrow streets full of lively restaurants, galleries and shops. Stroll Promenade du Paillon, Promenade des Anglais and visit the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in between.
A note from Artemis
If you decide to stay the night in Saint-Tropez, there are some amazing bars and nightclubs worth visiting. Check out Ice Kube Bar for an amazing cocktail experience, Chez Maggy for live music or Bar Du Port for a romantic & lively atmosphere. If you prefer the clubbing scene, Gaio, Les Caves du Roy and The VIP room are the most popular.
Places to eat & drink in the South of France
La Colombe D’Or - Located on the cobblestone streets of Saint Paul de Vence, La Colombe D'Or is like eating inside an art gallery - because it used to be one. Previous guests include Matisse, Braque, Yves Klein and Léger who used to come and exchange paintings for meals.
Bouchon - A traditional French restaurant in Monaco. Try the escargots!
Moshi Moshi - If you love sushi like I do, try Moshi Moshi, a new chic sushi bar in Monaco.
La Langouste - A chic city restaurant in Nice with sophisticated decor and traditional cuisine. The menu is separated between land, sea and pasta. There is truly something for everyone!
La Vague d’Or - Three Michelin-star restaurant in Saint Tropez with a splendid sea view.
La Californie - A brasserie in Cannes that is open from breakfast to dinner.
Le Bistro Gourmand - Situated just steps from Cannes’s lively Marché Forville, the city’s covered food market, this bistro has won a large following of local regulars for its market-driven seasonal menu. Try the fish soup!
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A trip to the South of France pairs well with a few days in Paris! Check out my Foodie's Guide to Paris, France.