So, you’ve decided to do a road trip through the French Riviera? Excellent choice! This sun-kissed stretch of coastline is where luxury meets history, where croissants are flaky, and the rosé flows like water. Buckle up, because this trip is going to be equal parts scenic, glamorous, and packed with food comas.
Day 1: Nice – The Grand Kickoff
Why Nice? Because it’s the heart of the Riviera, a perfect mix of beaches, city life, and good food. Plus, it’s 20 minutes from the airport, so no time wasted!
What to Do:
- Promenade des Anglais – Stroll along the famous seafront boulevard. Bonus points if you do it with a gelato in hand.
- Old Town (Vieux Nice) – Lose yourself in the narrow streets and pastel-colored buildings. Stop by the Cours Saleya market for fresh flowers, fruit, and local treats.
- Castle Hill (Colline du Château) – Climb (or take the elevator) for epic views of the city and the Baie des Anges.
- Dinner at Le Panier – Small, cozy, and absolutely delicious Provençal dishes.
📍Where to Stay: Hotel Le Negresco if you’re feeling fancy, or Hôtel Rossetti for a boutique, budget-friendly vibe.
Day 2: Villefranche-sur-Mer & Cap-Ferrat – The Hidden Gem & the Billionaire’s Playground
Why? Because you need a day to ease into this trip, and nothing says ‘ease’ like sipping coffee by the water in a postcard-perfect town.
What to Do:
- Breakfast at La Baleine Joyeuse – Cute café with waterfront views and croissants that will ruin all others for you.
- Beach Time at Plage des Marinières – Soft sand, turquoise waters, and fewer crowds than Nice.
- Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild – Fancy yourself a Gatsby moment? This pink mansion is peak luxury, and the gardens are stunning.
- Hike or Walk the Cap-Ferrat Coastal Path – Jaw-dropping views and some of the most expensive villas on earth.
- Dinner at Paloma Beach – Eat fresh seafood while watching yachts bobbing in the distance.
📍Stay in Villefranche for a quieter experience or return to Nice.
Day 3: Monaco – Because Why Not?
Why? Monaco is 30 minutes from Nice, and it’s the only place where you can see Lamborghinis stuck in traffic next to a supermarket.
What to Do:
- Monte Carlo Casino – Even if you don’t gamble, the interiors are like a movie set.
- Prince’s Palace & Old Town Monaco – Pretty, historical, and the changing of the guard is fun to watch.
- Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique) – Because nothing says ‘Riviera’ like stunning cactus gardens with sea views.
- Drinks at Hôtel de Paris – Feel like James Bond while sipping a cocktail.
📍Stay in Monaco for the experience or return to Nice.
Day 4: Èze – Medieval Fairytale Town
Why? Because it’s a hilltop village with medieval vibes, and the views will make your Instagram explode.
What to Do:
- Hike the Nietzsche Path – A short but intense hike up to Èze (or drive if you prefer life).
- Explore the Village – Cobblestone streets, art galleries, and flower-covered stone houses.
- Visit the Exotic Garden – More cacti, but with an insane view over the Mediterranean.
- Lunch at Château Eza – A Michelin-star meal with panoramic views.
📍Stay in Èze for peace, or head to Antibes for a livelier evening.
Day 5: Antibes – The Riviera’s Best-Kept Secret
Why? It’s a mix of old-town charm and beachy relaxation without the crowds of Nice.
What to Do:
- Picasso Museum – Because Picasso lived here, and the views from the museum are almost better than the art.
- Walk Along the Port Vauban – See the mega yachts, then wonder what you’re doing with your life.
- Plage de la Garoupe – Quiet, beautiful beach with clear water.
📍Stay in Antibes or continue to Cannes.
Days 6-7: Cannes & Îles de Lérins – Live Like a Movie Star
Why? Cannes is all about old-school glamour, and the nearby islands offer a perfect nature escape.
What to Do:
- La Croisette Boulevard – Designer stores, luxury hotels, and lots of people pretending to be famous.
- Le Suquet (Old Town Cannes) – Climb up for a great sunset view.
- Îles de Lérins – Take a short boat trip to this peaceful island with hiking trails and clear waters.
📍Stay at Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic for glam or a cozy Airbnb in Le Suquet.
Days 8-9: Saint-Tropez – Glitz, Beaches & Rosé
Why? Because what’s a Riviera trip without a Saint-Tropez moment?
What to Do:
- Plage de Pampelonne – Beach clubs, rosé, and very tan people.
- Old Port & Place des Lices – Cute cafés and local markets.
- Sunset at Les Caves du Roy – A legendary nightclub if you want to party like the rich and famous.
📍Stay at Hôtel de Paris Saint-Tropez or a charming guesthouse nearby.
Day 10: Back to Nice & Departure
End your trip where it began, maybe with one last croissant and a view of the sea. Try to hold back tears.
Final Tips for Your Road Trip:
- Rent a small car – Those coastal roads are tight!
- Don’t overpack – You’ll end up wearing the same sundress/shirt 90% of the time.
- Always have cash – Some beach clubs and small markets prefer it.
- Rosé all day – It’s practically the law in the South of France.
- Take it slow – The Riviera is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
