Curator’s statement
Everyone from your trendy coworker to your down-the-street neighbor seems to be heading to Southern France lately. For good reason. Stretches of beach, awe-inspiring architecture, open-air French markets and incredible food would keep anyone around. I recommend 4–5 days, anchoring yourself in Nice and exploring nearby towns of Cannes, Antibes and Cape Ferrat. Include a quick stop in Monaco and cross one more country off your list ;)
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Things to do in French Riviera
Climb Castle Hill
A mild 30-minute hike brings you to Colline du Château and gives you the most epic views of Nice and the French Riviera coastline. You can pick your favorite super yacht in the Marina on your way up.
Stroll the open-air markets and shops
Fresh flowers, fruit, seafood, meats, wines, cheeses and more can be found in the markets along Cours Saleya. Grab your fixings for lunch on the beach while popping in and out of boutiques along the way.
Snap a pic at Place Massena
Nice's gorgeous black and white historic square is an ideal backdrop to capture your South of France memories.
Walk the Promenade des Anglais
A leisurely walk down the Promenade is the perfect activity before or after dinner. You can even rent skates, scooters or bikes if you want to rev it up a bit.
Enjoy VIP at Ruhl Plage
The beaches in Nice are gorgeous but rocky! You have the best chance of comfort if you rent a chair and umbrella from one of the beach clubs. You'll also get chairside service, so while picnicking on the beach was one of our favorites, it was totally worth it to treat ourselves to one afternoon at Ruhl Plage.
Day Trips:
These day trips are only a 30-minute train ride away from your base camp in Nice.
Saint Jean Cap Ferrat
Less touristy than other coastal towns but just as luxurious and beautiful. Visit the Four Seasons or post up at Paloma Beach for a relaxing indulgence.
Cannes
Explore Le Suquet and Marché Forville before heading to your reservation at Carlton Beach Club.
Antibes
Tour Old Town and Port Vauban. Charter a catamaran from the Port to experience the French Riviera from the water.
Places to eat & drink in French Riviera
Breakfast:
EDMOND Café
The blue and white patisserie of your dreams, offering coffee, pastries, heavier faire and cakes.
Le Country Store
Specialty coffee roasters but gluten-free and vegan options available.
One Love Café
Cozy, contemporary brunch spot.
Lunch:
Cours Saleya
Grabbing a baguette, some fruit, meat and cheese and taking it down to the beach was our preferred way to lunch in Nice.
L'Alchimie
Modern, Mediterranean. Lunches are perfectly plated artworks! Snag a table next to the window for some light people-watching.
La Cucina
Feels like a true neighborhood favorite. French and Italian fusion with a great patio and cocktails!
Dinner:
Le Boudoir
Truffle lovers, this is IT. Fresh truffles were literally delivered by moped while we were dining. Expect heartier, seasonal dishes topped with fresh, shaved truffle. Chefs kiss.
Le Chantecler
High-end dining at Le Negresco is a special treat.
La Vague
It would be a shame to leave Nice without a dinner of fresh seafood. La Vague serves fresh catches and eye-popping grilled octopus in a cozy, comfortable venue.
Need to know
Monaco - While Monaco can be reached in under an hour from Nice, my best advice is to go prepared. If you're not in the mood to dress to the nines, it may be best to pass, but for an all-in night on the town, it's worthy of a quick lap through the casino and designer shopping.
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Travel Advisor
Kaitlyn Knause
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This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Nice. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Laura Doroghazi's guide, The French Riviera - Nice