From Coastal Gems to Cultural Treasures: Your South of France (French Riviera) Guide
When you think of France, you might envision the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the glamorous Parisian lifestyle. But there is so much more to experience in the South of France than just the big city! The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur), tucked into the southeastern corner of this beautiful country, offers gorgeous Mediterranean coastlines, wonderful Provençal cuisine, and a unique culture that captivates visitors from around the world. If you are debating between visiting the capital or heading south, our guide on Discover Your Dream Summer Getaway: Paris vs. South of France Vacation Destinations can help you make the perfect choice for your travel style.
I’ve handpicked five must-visit destinations in the French Riviera that are absolutely worth your time if you’re planning a trip to this enchanting region. While these gems represent some of the best places the South of France has to offer, they’re certainly not all this magical region has in store for you!
Nice: The Heart of the South of France
Nice is the vibrant capital of the French Riviera and the fifth-largest city in France. Known locally as Nice la Belle (Nice the Beautiful), this jewel of the South of France seamlessly blends Italian and French influences in its architecture, cuisine, and culture.
The crown jewel of Nice is its famous seaside promenade, Le Promenade des Anglais, stretching for four miles along the azure Mediterranean Sea and offering some breathtaking views. The distinctive blue chairs that line the promenade have become an iconic symbol of the city.
Wander through the charming streets of Vieux Nice (Old Town), where you’ll discover colourful buildings, bustling markets, and cafés with outdoor tables where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy coffee and exquisite French pastries. While exploring Nice, be sure to try some local specialties like:
- Socca (a delicious chickpea crepe)
- Pan bagnat (a traditional Niçoise sandwich)
- Pissaladière (a savory flatbread topped with caramelized onions, olives, and anchovies)
Don’t miss climbing up to Le Château de Nice, the historic castle ruins that offer panoramic views of the Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels) and the terracotta rooftops that define the South of France landscape.
Menton: The Pearl of the South of France
Situated at the easternmost edge of the South of France, Menton is the last French town before crossing into Italy. Known for its exceptional microclimate, even milder than the rest of the South of France, Menton boasts beautiful gardens, pristine beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere that provides a welcome contrast to the busier Riviera destinations.
This picturesque town is famous for its citrus fruits, particularly its sweet lemons. If your timing allows, I highly recommend visiting during the annual Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival) held each February. This extraordinary event transforms the town with massive sculptures and displays created entirely from locally grown lemons and oranges, a truly unique experience!
The pastel-colored buildings that line Menton’s waterfront create one of the most photographed views in the South of France. The Italian influence is evident in both the architecture and the cuisine, making Menton a fascinating cultural crossroad.
Monaco: The Glamorous Enclave Within the South of France
While technically an independent principality, Monaco is completely surrounded by France and makes for an essential stop on any Riviera itinerary. As the second smallest country in the world, Monaco packs an impressive amount of luxury and excitement into its 0.78 square miles.
This opulent destination is synonymous with glamour, known worldwide for its famous Monte Carlo Casino, luxury hotels, and the prestigious Formula 1 Grand Prix that transforms Monaco’s streets each May. Although French is the official language and the culture is heavily influenced by France, Monaco maintains its own distinct identity.
The harbour filled with superyachts, the meticulously maintained exotic gardens, and some of the world’s most expensive real estate (reaching up to $1 million per square meter!) all contribute to Monaco’s reputation as the playground of the ultra wealthy. Even if luxury shopping is not on your agenda, walking through Monaco’s spotlessly clean streets and soaking in the atmosphere is an unforgettable experience.
Marseille: The Ancient Soul of the South of France
As France’s oldest city and second largest after Paris, Marseille offers visitors a perfect blend of urban energy and Mediterranean charm. This major cruise port has been a cultural melting pot for over 2,600 years, creating a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the South of France.
The iconic Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde stands majestically on the city’s highest point, providing spectacular panoramic views of Marseille and the Mediterranean Sea. This landmark is affectionately known as “La Bonne Mère” (The Good Mother) by locals and serves as the guardian of the city and its sailors.
No visit to Marseille would be complete without tasting authentic bouillabaisse, the legendary fish stew that originated in this port city. Made with at least four different types of local Mediterranean fish, saffron, fennel, and other herbs, traditional bouillabaisse is more than just a meal!
The revitalized Vieux Port (Old Port) area and the trendy Panier district showcase how Marseille harmoniously blends its ancient heritage with contemporary South of France culture, making it one of the most dynamic cities in the region.
Cannes: The Star of the South of France
Synonymous with celebrity and cinematic glamour, Cannes transforms into the world’s film capital each May during the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. But this glittering South of France destination offers much more than just star-spotting opportunities.
La Croisette, Cannes’ famous palm lined boulevard, stretches alongside stunning beaches and hosts some of the South of France’s most exclusive hotels and designer boutiques. The contrast between the luxury of modern Cannes and the old world charm of Le Suquet (the old town) perfectly captures the diverse appeal of the South of France.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Cannes offers visitors pristine beaches, excellent restaurants serving traditional South of France cuisine, and easy access to the Lérins Islands just offshore, a tranquil escape featuring historic forts, monasteries, and unspoiled natural beauty.
Planning Your Perfect Adventure
The South of France offers an incredible diversity of experiences within a relatively compact region. While these five destinations showcase some of the best the area has to offer, countless other treasures await, from the lavender fields of Provence to the dramatic Verdon Gorge and the artistic heritage of Saint Paul de Vence.
The best time to visit the is typically April through June or September through October when the weather is pleasant but the summer crowds have thinned. High season (July and August) brings perfect beach weather but also higher prices and more tourists.
Whether you are drawn to the South of France for its breathtaking coastlines, its rich cultural heritage, its world class cuisine, or simply its laid back Mediterranean lifestyle, this enchanting region promises an unforgettable travel experience that will leave you planning your return visit before you have even departed.
So there you have it, five of the most captivating destinations in the South of France. You will be spoiled for choice in this beautiful corner of the world. If you are looking for a place that perfectly balances natural beauty, fascinating culture, and joie de vivre, the South of France is waiting to welcome you with open arms.
