Welcome to the French Riviera! This 3-day itinerary will show you the best of what the Cote D’Azur has to offer. From the chic city of Nice to the glamorous Cannes and Monaco, you’ll be treated to a taste of la dolce vita.
So pack your bags and get ready for an amazing trip!
Cote D’Azur: Where Is It?
The Cote D’Azur, or French Riviera, is a stretch of coastline on the Mediterranean Sea in southeastern France. It is known for its mild climate, beaches, and luxurious lifestyle. Its picturesque coastline and Mediterranean climate have attracted visitors for centuries.
Early tourists included members of the British aristocracy, who came to escape the chilly winters of England. In the late 19th century, the advent of rail travel made it easier for middle-class Europeans to visit the area.
And in the early 20th century, Hollywood celebrities began spending their winters on the Cote d’Azur. Today, the French Riviera is a favorite destination for travelers from all over the world.
Thanks to its stunning scenery and year-round sunny weather, it’s easy to see why the Cote d’Azur continues to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
The largest city on the Cote D’Azur is Nice, which is also the region’s capital. other popular destinations include Cannes, Saint-Tropez, and Monaco.
The Cote D’Azur has long been a popular destination for the wealthy and famous, and it continues to attract visitors from all over the world.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a glamorous nightlife scene, the Cote D’Azur is sure to have something to offer.
To know the best time to visit Cote D’Azur read: The Best Time to Visit the French Riviera
How To Get To Cote D’Azur?
There are a few different ways to get to the Cote D’Azur depending on your location.
If you’re coming from within Europe, the easiest way to get to the Cote d’Azur is by flying into Nice Airport (NCE). The airport is located just a few kilometers from the city center and is well-connected to the rest of the region.
If you’re coming from further afield, you can fly to one of the other major airports in France such as Paris, Marseille, or Lyon. From there, you can take a domestic flight or train to Nice.
Once you’re on the Cote d’Azur, getting around is relatively easy. The region is well-connected by bus and train, and there are also a number of car rental companies if you want to explore on your own.
Day 1: Arrival in Nice, France
Upon arrival in Nice, France, you will be met at the airport by your private driver. You’ll then be whisked away to your luxury accommodations for the next two weeks.
The remainder of the day is yours to relax and explore the city at your leisure. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, people watch from a café, or simply relax in your room and take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at one of Nice’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Bon appétit!
Arrive in Nice and take a walk along the Promenade des Anglais
Nice, on the French Riviera, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.
And it’s easy to see why: the city has a Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, and stunning architecture. Not to mention, it’s just a short train ride from other major cities like Cannes and Monaco.
If you’re planning a trip to Nice, be sure to add these three activities to your itinerary.
First, take a walk along the Promenade des Anglais. This iconic seaside promenade is lined with palm trees and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll or people watch from one of the many cafes.
Next, head to the Old Town for some shopping and sightseeing. Stroll down narrow streets lined with boutique shops and stop to admire the Baroque architecture of churches like Notre Dame de Nice. If you get hungry, there are plenty of restaurants serving up delicious Niçoise cuisine.
Finally, no trip to Nice would be complete without spending a day at the beach. sunbathe on the soft sand or take a dip in the sparkling water. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking.
Visit the old city of Nice and explore the narrow streets and colorful buildings
Nice is a beautiful city located on the French Riviera. It is well known for its sunny weather, sandy beaches, and luxurious lifestyle. However, Nice is also home to a stunning Old Town that is full of narrow streets and colorful buildings.
The Old Town is a great place to explore if you want to experience the true culture of Nice. There are many shops and restaurants to visit, and the architecture is simply breathtaking.
If you are planning a trip to Nice, be sure to include a visit to the Old Town on your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed!
Have dinner at a local restaurant
Nice is known for its beautiful Mediterranean setting, as well as its delicious cuisine. When visiting Nice, be sure to enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.
The most popular dishes in Nice are ratatouille, a vegetable stew; pissaladiere, a type of pizza topped with onions and olives; and Socca, a chickpea pancake. Of course, no meal in Nice would be complete without a glass of rosé wine.
With its picturesque setting and delicious food, dining out in Nice is an unforgettable experience.
Day 2: Venture Cannes
Cannes is a beautiful city located on the French Riviera. Its picturesque beaches and stunning scenery make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. However, there is more to Cannes than just its beaches.
The city is also home to a number of museums and art galleries, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Day 2 is the perfect opportunity to explore all that Cannes has to offer. Start the day by taking a walk along the Promenade de la Croisette, where you can admire the city’s glamorous casinos and luxury hotels.
Then, head to one of the museums or galleries to learn more about the city’s rich history and culture. In the evening, enjoy a delicious meal at one of Cannes’ many restaurants before heading out to enjoy the nightlife.
Drive to Cannes and spend the day walking around the city, visiting the beach, and shopping for souvenirs
Although it is possible to fly to Nice and take a train or bus to Cannes, driving is the best way to get around the French Riviera. The journey from Nice to Cannes takes about 30 minutes, and the scenery along the coast is stunning.
Once you arrive in Cannes, there are plenty of things to do. You can walk around the city, visit the famous Promenade de la Croisette, and enjoy the beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a boat trip to one of the nearby islands.
In the afternoon, you can explore the shops and markets for souvenirs. The experience of driving to Cannes and spending a day exploring everything that the city has to offer is definitely worth it.
Have dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant
For many people, dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And it’s no wonder why. Michelin-starred chefs are some of the best in the world, and they take great pride in creating exquisite dishes that are both beautiful and delicious.
Dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant is an opportunity to sample the very best that the culinary world has to offer. But it’s also important to remember that Michelin-starred restaurants come with a price tag.
Expect to pay significantly more for your meal than you would at a non-Michelin-starred restaurant. But if you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, a Michelin-starred restaurant is definitely worth the splurge.
Day 3: Stop at Monaco
On the third day of the cruise, the ship will dock in Monaco, located in the Cote D’Azur region of southeastern France. Monaco is perhaps best known as a playground for the wealthy, and visitors will find no shortage of luxury shops and casinos.
However, Monaco has much more to offer than just glitz and glamour. The Principality of Monaco is an independent city-state, and its rich history is on display at attractions like the Prince’s Palace and the Oceanographic Museum.
With its sunny weather and Mediterranean atmosphere, Monaco is a perfect place to spend a day exploring before getting back on board for the next leg of the journey.
Drive to Monaco and visit Prince’s Palace, Oceanographic Museum, and Casino Square
Monaco is a sparkling city located on the French Riviera. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Principality’s famous landmarks, including the Prince’s Palace, the Oceanographic Museum, and Casino Square.
The Prince’s Palace
The Prince’s Palace is the official residence of Monaco’s ruling family, the Grimaldis. The palace dates back to the 13th century, though most of the buildings currently standing were built in the late 19th century. Visitors can take a guided tour of the State Apartments, which are decorated with lavish furniture and tapestries or explore the grounds on their own.
Address: 98015 Monaco
The Oceanographic Museum
The Oceanographic Museum was founded by Prince Albert I in 1910 and is one of Monaco’s most popular tourist attractions. The museum is home to over 6,000 marine specimens, including sharks, rays, and turtles. Visitors can also descend into the depths of the sea in a simulated submarine or enjoy panoramic views of Monaco from the museum’s rooftop restaurant.
Address: Av. Saint-Martin, 98000 Monaco
Casino Square
Casino Square is world-famous for its luxury casinos, including the Casino de Monte-Carlo. Visitors can try their luck at one of the many gaming tables or enjoy a drink at one of the upscale bars and restaurants. Casino Square is also home to several high-end boutiques selling designer clothes and jewelry.
Address: Pl. du Casino, 98000 Monaco
Have lunch at a seaside cafe before returning home
After a morning spent exploring the shops and beaches of a seaside town, there is nothing better than sitting down for a leisurely lunch before heading back home. Fortunately, most seaside towns have plenty of cafes and restaurants to choose from.
When choosing a place to eat, look for one with a good view of the ocean. There is something special about being able to enjoy the sound and smell of the sea while you eat. Another good option is to find a cafe that specializes in seafood.
If you are lucky enough to be near a fishing town, you can be sure that the seafood will be fresh and delicious. Whatever type of cafe you choose, take your time and savor the experience. After all, there is no rush when you are on vacation.
Tips When Visiting Cote D’Azur
When visiting the Cote D’Azur region of France, be sure to take advantage of the many wonderful opportunities for sightseeing and dining. However, there are a few tips that can help make your visit even more enjoyable.
When Sightseeing:
- Be sure to dress comfortably and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Many of the attractions are located outdoors, so be prepared for hot weather.
- Most museums and churches charge an admission fee, so be sure to have enough money with you.
- Some tourist destinations are busy during the summer months, so be prepared for large crowds.
- If possible, try to visit some of the attractions during the off-season when they are less crowded.
- Many of the smaller villages in the region are not easily accessible by public transportation, so you may need to rent a car or take a taxi.
Want to know the best 20 Destinations in the French Riviera, click here.
When Dining:
- Michelin-starred restaurants come with a price tag, so be prepared to spend significantly more than you would at a non-Michelin-starred restaurant.
- However, if you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, a Michelin-starred restaurant is definitely worth the splurge.
- When choosing a restaurant, be sure to research beforehand and make reservations if necessary.
- Remember that restaurants in the Cote D’Azur region tend to specialize in certain types of cuisine, so be sure to try something new while you’re there.
- When ordering wine, be aware that many restaurants will charge a corkage fee if you bring your own wine.
- And finally, keep in mind that dining out in the Cote D’Azur region tends to be a leisurely affair, so be prepared to spend several hours at the restaurant.
French Riviera is boring without enjoying the nightlife there. Read French Riviera Nightlife: Best Bars, Clubs, & More to get your evening pump up when visiting the region.
In conclusion
The Cote D’Azur region of France is a popular tourist destination for good reason. With its stunningly beautiful beaches, charming villages, and world-class restaurants, there is something for everyone in this picturesque corner of the world.
Whether you’re looking to explore the sights or enjoy some delicious French cuisine, be sure to add the Cote D’Azur to your list of places to visit.
