French Riviera Holidays

Lose yourself in Vieux Nice, where ochre façades, baroque churches, and bustling squares create a wonderfully atmospheric introduction to the city. Browse the Cours Saleya market, then climb up to Castle Hill for one of the Riviera’s finest viewpoints, overlooking the Baie des Anges. Afterwards, follow the Promenade des Anglais towards the sea, ideally with an ice cream from one of the city’s much-loved gelaterias in hand.

Tiny in size but enormous in reputation, Monaco makes an excellent day trip from the Riviera. Watch luxury yachts glide into Port Hercule, explore the atmospheric streets of Monaco-Ville, and visit the Prince’s Palace before heading towards Monte Carlo. If you’re feeling lucky, the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo is an obvious stop. Even without placing a bet, its Belle Époque architecture is worth seeing.

The Riviera has long attracted painters, writers and creative minds, and you can still see why. Head to Saint-Paul-de-Vence to explore its stone lanes, galleries, and artistic heritage, or visit the Fondation Maeght for an impressive collection of modern art surrounded by sculpture-filled gardens. In Antibes, the Musée Picasso occupies the historic Château Grimaldi, overlooking the Mediterranean, an art gallery with a rather enviable address.

See the French Riviera from its most flattering angle: the water. Boat trips leave from several coastal towns, offering a fresh perspective of dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and glamorous waterfronts. You could cruise towards the Cap d’Antibes, explore the coastline around Villefranche-sur-Mer or take to the water from Cannes. For something particularly memorable, opt for a sunset sailing and watch the coastline slip into the evening light.

Cannes may be synonymous with film stars, but there’s far more to the city than its famous festival. Walk the palm-lined Croisette, browse designer boutiques, and wander through Le Suquet, the oldest part of town, where steep lanes lead to superb views over the bay. You can also hop aboard a boat to the nearby Lérins Islands for a dose of history and nature away from the city.

Food is part of the Riviera’s rhythm, so make time to explore beyond the hotel menu. Try Niçoise specialities such as socca, pissaladière, and salade niçoise, then settle into a waterside restaurant for fresh seafood. Local markets are perfect for picking up Provençal ingredients, while a glass of chilled rosé makes a fitting accompaniment. For a change of scene, head inland for vineyards and tasting experiences among the hills.