4 Must-See Destinations in the French Riviera

The city of Nice is the beating heart of the region. Not only because it’s the main entry point into the Riviera, but because it embodies the very essence of the region. With its glorious coastline, a twisting maze of quaint streets but with a Mediterranean slant. While Parisians sit in cafes and watch the world go by, the Nicois head down to the promenade, enjoying the slower pace of life. Be sure to take the time to sit and relax on the beach, watching the waves as they tumble towards you. For panoramic views, take a leisurely walk up to Castle Hill. If you’d rather stay in the shade, why not take a wander around Nice’s Old Town? The historic quarter is peppered with charming cafes and restaurants, as well as a wealth of markets to browse. The markets are open every day except Monday. As a city, Nice will show travelers that life along the Mediterranean goes with that charmingly laid-back French attitude.

The petit principality of Monaco is actually a sovereign city-state, independent from France. And it is actually the second-smallest country in the world after Vatican City! However, it is actually one of the richest countries, being a favourite among celebrities. It has a beautiful port, and the city contains high-end casinos along with top notch 5-star resorts. There are many cultural activities to enjoy, such as shows at the Opera House and the worldwide popular Monaco Grand Prix in May. While you’re there, don’t miss the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, which is the residence of the longest-ruling Royal Family in Europe. Travelers can have a taste of the true lifestyle of this state by dining in the city’s market square and enjoying an evening drink at one of the many high-end cocktail bars 

Famous worldwide for its annual Film Festival during which time the town becomes the most prodigious place on the planet, Cannes has much more to offer. With its spectacular beaches, fancy cafes and luxury shops, visiting Cannes is a rite of passage. But there’s much more to Cannes than expensive streets. Head to the Suquet district for a beautiful view over the city and the Mediterranean, feeling the soul of the city. History buffs can take a ferry to the island of Sainte-Marguerite and visit The Royal Fort, a former fortress prison dating back to the 17th century. 

One of the oldest cities in France, Marseilles is a history lover’s paradise. The city began as a star of the Greek Empire around 600 BC and blossomed as a trading and intellectual center during the Roman Empire. Visit the Musée d’Histoire de Marseille to take in the history of this famous city from its first discovery to present. The best place to take it all in is along the Vieux-Port, where fishing boats putter among sparkling yachts. Take a walk around the port and admire the glittering new architecture rising from its dramatically renovated waterfront. A few steps from the port, travelers can visit the Mucem, a museum located inside the stone ramparts of 17th-century Fort Saint-Jean, a bold symbol heralding Marseilles as a flourishing pan-Mediterranean hub. And enjoy a 360-degree view of the city from the Notre-Dame de la Garde, a neo-Byzantine church that has stood high on the hill for eight centuries.