French Riviera

A glamorous stretch of Mediterranean coastline featuring renowned resort towns like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, known for beaches, luxury, and celebrity culture. It attracts millions seeking sun, sophistication, and the legendary Riviera lifestyle.

Things to do

• Stroll the Promenade des Anglais — Walk the iconic 7-kilometer seafront boulevard in Nice lined with Belle Époque hotels, beaches, and Mediterranean views.
• Visit the Palais des Festivals — Explore Cannes' legendary red-carpet venue where the annual Film Festival takes place, offering guided tours and cultural events.
• Explore Monaco's Monte Carlo Casino — Experience the opulent Belle Époque gambling palace and its surrounding gardens, a symbol of Riviera luxury and sophistication.
• Hike to Fort de la Bastille — Trek up to this 17th-century fortress overlooking the Baie des Anges for panoramic coastal views and hiking trails.
• Visit Antibes Old Town — Wander the medieval cobblestone streets, ramparts, and Picasso Museum in this charming port town between Cannes and Nice.
• Relax at Plage de Pampelonne — Beach at this famous 9-kilometer sandy stretch near Saint-Tropez known for glamorous clubs, water sports, and golden sand.

Food to try

• Salade Niçoise — A classic Nice salad with tuna, hard-boiled eggs, anchovies, olives, tomatoes, and potatoes dressed in olive oil, representing local Provençal tradition.
• Bouillabaisse — A traditional Mediterranean fish stew from Provence served with rouille, croutons, and Gruyère cheese, best enjoyed along the coast.
• Socca — A thin, crispy chickpea pancake from Nice's street food culture, traditionally served hot with olive oil and black pepper.
• Pissaladière — A Niçois dish resembling pizza topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives on a bread base, a local specialty older than Italian pizza.
• Fruits de Mer Platters — Fresh oysters, mussels, scallops, and sea urchins served on ice from Mediterranean ports, a luxury dining staple of the Riviera.

Local customs & good to know

• Observe the dress code — The Riviera values smart-casual elegance; beachwear is for beaches only, and upscale restaurants expect closed-toe shoes and refined attire in the evenings.
• Embrace the siesta tradition — Many local shops close between noon and 2-3pm for lunch; plan activities accordingly and enjoy long Mediterranean meals rather than rushing.
• Use French greetings — Always greet shopkeepers and service staff with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir,' and say 'Au revoir' when leaving; politeness is essential to local culture.
• Visit during off-season — June and September offer better prices and fewer crowds than summer; locals prefer spring and fall when the Riviera retains its elegance without tourist overwhelming.