The Perfect French Riviera Itinerary: 5 Days in the Côte d’Azur

Icon Share

SHARE

Advisor - Jessica Eknaian
Curated By

Jessica Eknaian

  • French Riviera

  • France

  • Beaches

  • Boutique Travel

  • Beach Town

  • Sightseeing

  • History

A church on the seashore
Curator’s statement

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, is a glamorous Mediterranean destination renowned for its stunning coastline, chic resorts and vibrant culture. Picture azure waters, sun-kissed beaches and charming villages nestled between the sea and the mountains. From the luxury of Monaco to the artistic allure of Nice and the laid-back elegance of Cannes, the French Riviera offers a blend of sophistication, historic charm and picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal playground for those seeking a refined and memorable escape.

The Fora Difference

Book with Jessica to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

[object Object]
Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

[object Object]
Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

[object Object]
Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

Hotel Royal Riviera Saint Jean Cap Ferrat

This hotel is a stunning cocktail of Art Deco and Neo-Hellenic influences overlooking a Mediterranean garden.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    $100 spa credit.

  • ★

    Breakfast daily.

  • ★

    Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

This stylish seaside stay embodies the glamor of France’s sparkling Côte d’Azur. Expect sophisticated accommodations, locally sourced food (including a lovely juice and ice cream bar) and flawless service.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    $100 hotel / resort credit.

  • ★

    Breakfast daily.

  • ★

    Upgrade whenever possible.

  • ★

    Priority access to courtesy car, where applicable.

La Réserve de Beaulieu

Iconic hotel on the French Riviera with high-end dining experiences.

Hotel Belles Rives

A beachfront hotel with Gilded Age history and vibes, plus art-filled public spaces and a private beach and pontoon.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    $100 food / beverage credit.

  • ★

    Breakfast daily.

  • ★

    Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

The 1932 Hotel & Spa Cap d'Antibes - MGallery

Experience the epitome of French Riviera sophistication and glamour at this exclusive boutique hotel, where timeless elegance meets modern luxury.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    Food / beverage credit.

  • ★

    Welcome treat in room on arrival.

  • ★

    Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.

Unlock perks by contacting Jessica to book your trip.

Day 1: Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Boats in a water body with mountains at the back.

  • Arrive at Nice Airport with VIP Meet & Greet for expedited customs and baggage handling.

  • Private transfer to the resort hotel for check-in.

  • Dine along the marina at a Restaurant Le Saint Jean

  • Explore the exquisite gardens of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

  • OR instead, Relax on private beach club for the afternoon, Paloma Beach and take a coastal walk around the peninsula

Day 2: Villefranche-sur-Mer and Nice

Colorful buildings near waterbody.

  • Spend the morning in the quaint fishing village of Villefranche-sur-Mer, strolling through the picturesque Old Town.

  • Visit the Saint-Elme Citadel.

  • Afternoon in Nice, exploring the Promenade des Anglais, Old Town, and museums like Chagall and Matisse.

  • Relax at one of Nice’s many famous beach clubs, like Plage Beau Rivage

  • OR indulge in a food and wine tour throughout the hidden gems of culinary treasures, quality wines and tales of past and present in Nice



Day 3: Explore Eze and Monaco

Aerial view of sea with buildings at shore.

  • Meet your private transfer and tour guide for the day

  • Head to the charming medieval village of Eze.

  • Explore the Jardin Exotique and the cobblestone streets.

  • Visit the Fragonard Perfume Factory.

  • Continue to Monaco in the afternoon, passing through iconic James Bond filming locations and the F1 Grand Prix raceway.

  • Visit the Prince’s Palace, the Oceanographic Museum, and the famous Casino Square with luxury shopping and excellent people-watching.

Day 4: Transfer to Cap d’Antibes

View of ocean from shore.

  • Check into Antibes hotel, begin by exploring and visiting the Picasso Museum

  • Relax on the beaches or take a walk along the Cap d'Antibes coastal path; OR Book a spa treatment for the afternooon

  • Enjoy an evening in the vibrant atmosphere of Antibes Old Town, followed by a memorable dinner at Madison de Bacon or one star Michelin, LouRoc

Day 5: Cannes

A man and woman walking along a body of water with boats.

  • Day trip to Cannes, known for its glamorous atmosphere.

  • Explore the Croisette, visit the Film Festival Palace, and stroll through Le Suquet.

  • Enjoy upscale shopping and dine in one of Cannes’ renowned restaurants. You could take a private boat ride to swanky La Guerite or enjoy dinner by candlelight at La Petite Maison de Nicole where you are likely to spot a celebrity similarly enjoying the atmosphere and delicious offerings.

Need to know

Simply strolling through all these towns with no schedule is one of my favorite things to do!  The varied charm of all allows always something new to discover.  Every price point hotels and restaurants can be found throughout. I encountered all locals to be exceptionally welcoming and spoke English.  

It is also valuable to know that transportation along the French Riviera is remarkably convenient, with well-connected options for seamless travel. Efficient train services link major cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, providing a scenic journey along the coast. Additionally, a network of buses offers easy access to smaller towns and scenic routes. Renting a car provides flexibility to explore at your own pace, while boats and ferries offer a charming way to hop between coastal gems.  I personally took the train and taxis often. Trains were very low cost and extremely convenient.



Advisor - Jessica Eknaian

Travel Advisor

Jessica Eknaian

Get in touch with Jessica

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Jessica within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Laura Doroghazi’s guide The French Riviera - Nice.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to France.