The Perfect 7-Day French Riviera Itinerary: Ultimate Côte d’Azur Travel Guide
Last Updated on 27/06/2026 by Mayi
The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is one of the most beautiful coastal regions in Europe, famous for its turquoise waters, colourful towns, and glamorous seaside atmosphere.
Planning a wider trip? Start with my France travel guide for regions, itineraries and hidden gems.
Planning the perfect French Riviera itinerary can feel overwhelming. With so many beautiful towns along the Côte d’Azur, from glamorous Monaco to colourful Menton, it’s hard to know where to start.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to spend 7 days on the French Riviera, visiting some of the region’s most stunning coastal towns, hilltop villages, and scenic viewpoints. This itinerary includes Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Èze, Monaco, Antibes, Cannes, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and Menton.
How Many Days Do You Need for the French Riviera?
Seven days is the perfect amount of time to explore the French Riviera. In one week, you can visit iconic destinations like Nice, Monaco, Cannes and Antibes while also discovering charming villages such as Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence. A 7-day French Riviera itinerary allows enough time for beaches, sightseeing and scenic coastal trips.
French Riviera Town Comparison Guide
If you’re planning a trip along the Côte d’Azur, choosing which towns to visit can be difficult because every destination offers something different. This comparison table helps you quickly understand what makes each place special and which destinations fit best into your 7-day French Riviera itinerary.
Planning a Trip to the French Riviera
Best Time to Visit the French Riviera
The best time to visit the French Riviera is between May and September, when the weather is warm, sunny, and perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean coastline. July and August are the busiest months, especially in popular destinations like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco. If you prefer fewer crowds and slightly lower prices, May, June, and September are excellent months to visit. During these months, the weather is still beautiful, the sea is warm enough for swimming, and the atmosphere feels much more relaxed.
How to Get to the French Riviera
The easiest way to get to the French Riviera is by flying into Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, the main international gateway to the region. Nice Airport is the third busiest airport in France and offers direct flights from many European and international cities. From the airport, you can reach Nice city centre easily by tram, bus, or taxi. If you are travelling within France, high-speed TGV trains connect Paris to Nice in around six hours, making train travel another convenient option.
Getting Around the French Riviera
Getting around the French Riviera is simple thanks to the excellent coastal train network. Regional trains connect many of the Riviera’s most famous towns, including Nice, Monaco, Antibes, Cannes, and Menton, often in less than 30 minutes. This makes it very easy to explore multiple destinations during your trip. Buses also serve hilltop villages like Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence, while renting a car can be useful if you want more flexibility to explore smaller towns and viewpoints along the coast.
A more detailed French Riviera travel guide will be published soon to help you plan your trip in more depth.
Best Towns to Visit on the French Riviera
The French Riviera is home to dozens of beautiful towns, but some destinations stand out for first-time visitors.
Some of the best towns to visit on the Côte d’Azur include:
- Nice for vibrant city life and seaside promenades
- Villefranche-sur-Mer for one of the most beautiful harbours in France
- Beaulieu-sur-Mer for elegant Riviera charm and marina views
- Èze for dramatic hilltop views over the Mediterranean
- Monaco for glamour and iconic landmarks
- Antibes for its historic old town and scenic coastal walks
- Cannes for beaches and island excursions
- Menton for colourful architecture near the Italian border
French Riviera Town Comparison
| Destination | Best For | Atmosphere | Highlights | Time Needed |
| Nice | First-time visitors, culture, food | Lively city | Promenade des Anglais, Old Town markets, Castle Hill views | 1–2 days |
| Villefranche-sur-Mer | Scenic harbour & beach | Charming seaside village | Colourful harbour, Plage des Marinières, waterfront cafés | Half day |
| Beaulieu-sur-Mer | Relaxed Riviera elegance | Quiet and refined | Marina walks, Petite Afrique beach, seaside dining | Half day |
| Èze | Medieval village views | Romantic & historic | Exotic Garden panorama, cobbled streets, artisan shops | Half day |
| Monaco | Luxury & iconic Riviera glamour | Elegant and cosmopolitan | Monte Carlo Casino, Prince’s Palace, luxury marina | Half day |
| Antibes | Old town charm & coastal scenery | Authentic Riviera town | Provençal market, historic ramparts, Cap d’Antibes coastal walk | 1 day |
| Cannes | Glamour & island excursions | Elegant resort town | La Croisette promenade, Le Suquet old town, Lérins Islands | 1 day |
| Saint-Paul-de-Vence | Art & hilltop villages | Peaceful and historic | Art galleries, medieval ramparts, Provençal countryside views | Half day |
| Menton | Colourful architecture & gardens | Relaxed Mediterranean town | Old town houses, Saint-Michel Basilica, seaside gardens | Half day |
Quick Summary: Which French Riviera Town Should You Visit?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick guide to help prioritise destinations.
- Best base city: Nice
- Best medieval village: Èze
- Best authentic Riviera town: Antibes
- Best glamorous destination: Monaco
- Best beaches: Villefranche-sur-Mer and Beaulieu-sur-Mer
- Best colourful town: Menton
- Best day trip from Cannes: Lérins Islands
Now that you’ve seen the highlights of the Côte d’Azur, here’s how to organise them into a perfect one-week trip.
The Perfect 7-Day French Riviera Itinerary
This itinerary combines coastal towns, medieval villages, scenic viewpoints, and relaxing beach time so you can experience the full beauty of the Côte d’Azur.
Day 1 – Discover Nice, the Heart of the French Riviera
Your French Riviera itinerary begins in Nice, the vibrant capital of the Côte d’Azur. With its colourful old town, elegant seaside promenade, lively markets, and incredible Mediterranean views, Nice is the perfect introduction to the region.
Spend your first day soaking up the Riviera atmosphere while exploring the city’s most iconic neighbourhoods.
Walk Along the Promenade des Anglais
Start your morning with a walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais, one of the most recognisable waterfronts in France. Stretching for nearly 7 kilometres along the Baie des Anges, this iconic promenade is lined with palm trees, Belle Époque hotels, and sweeping views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea.
You’ll see locals jogging, cycling, or relaxing on the famous blue chairs facing the sea. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a slow start to the day and take in the Riviera scenery.
If you have time, you can even rent a bike and cycle along the promenade for a different perspective of the coastline.
Explore the Colourful Streets of Vieux Nice
Next, head into Vieux Nice (Old Town), where narrow streets wind between pastel-coloured buildings, small bakeries, and traditional restaurants.
This historic district has a completely different atmosphere from the elegant seafront and feels more like an Italian village — a reminder of the city’s historical ties with Italy.
Highlights of the Old Town include:
- Cours Saleya Market, one of the most famous markets on the French Riviera
- Nice Cathedral, a beautiful baroque church hidden among the narrow streets
- Local shops selling traditional Niçoise products like olive oil, soaps, and lavender
Make sure to stop for a scoop of artisanal gelato or a slice of socca, a traditional chickpea pancake that originated in Nice.
Climb to Castle Hill for the Best View in Nice
In the afternoon, make your way up to Castle Hill (Colline du Château). Although the original castle no longer stands, the hilltop park offers some of the most spectacular views on the French Riviera.
From the top you’ll see:
- The sweeping curve of the Baie des Anges
- The red rooftops of Nice Old Town
- The harbour and surrounding hills
There’s also a small waterfall and several shaded paths, making it a lovely place for a peaceful walk away from the busy city streets.
Dinner Near the Port of Nice
End your first day with dinner near Port Lympia, one of the most atmospheric areas of Nice. This neighbourhood has become increasingly popular for its vibrant restaurants and lively evening atmosphere.
Many restaurants here specialise in Mediterranean seafood, Provençal cuisine, and Italian-inspired dishes, reflecting the cultural mix of the region.
Day 2 – Villefranche-sur-Mer and Beaulieu-sur-Mer
On your second day on the French Riviera, explore two of the most charming coastal towns located just a few minutes from Nice. Both Villefranche-sur-Mer and Beaulieu-sur-Mer offer postcard-perfect scenery, colourful harbour views, and a slower Mediterranean pace that feels worlds away from the busier Riviera cities.
Because the towns are so close to each other, it’s easy to explore both in one relaxed day.
Morning in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Start your morning in Villefranche-sur-Mer, one of the most picturesque towns on the Côte d’Azur. The small harbour lined with colourful buildings is one of the most photographed spots on the French Riviera, and wandering through the narrow streets of the old town feels like stepping into a Mediterranean postcard.
Things to do in Villefranche-sur-Mer include:
- Strolling through the pastel-coloured Old Town streets
- Visiting the historic Citadel of Saint-Elme
- Walking along the waterfront promenade
- Relaxing at Plage des Marinières, one of the most beautiful beaches near Nice
The beach stretches along the bay with calm, crystal-clear water and views of the surrounding hills.
After exploring the town, you can either take a short train ride or drive a few minutes to your next stop: Beaulieu-sur-Mer.
Afternoon in Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Located between Nice and Monaco, Beaulieu-sur-Mer is one of the Riviera’s most elegant seaside towns. Known for its Belle Époque villas, palm-lined marina, and relaxed atmosphere, it feels more peaceful and local than many of the Riviera’s more famous destinations.
Enjoy a Coffee at Les Délices d’Aristée
Start your visit with a stop at Les Délices d’Aristée, a charming local patisserie loved for its beautifully crafted pastries and relaxed terrace atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to try a classic French tarte au citron, delicate macarons, or simply enjoy a coffee while watching everyday life in the village.
Walk Along the Beaulieu Marina
After your pastry break, take a stroll around the Port de Beaulieu, where colourful fishing boats sit alongside elegant yachts. The marina offers lovely sea views and a relaxed Riviera atmosphere without the crowds of larger ports.
Nearby you’ll also find Plage de la Petite Afrique, a beautiful beach surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation that create a surprisingly tropical feel.
Dinner at The African Queen
For dinner, head to one of the most iconic restaurants in the region: African Queen. This legendary Riviera restaurant has been welcoming celebrities, sailors, and travellers for decades. The terrace overlooking the marina is one of the most atmospheric dining spots on the Côte d’Azur.
Popular dishes include:
- Mediterranean seafood
- Fresh fish of the day
- Pasta with truffles
- Provençal specialities
Dining here as the sun sets over the harbour is a perfect way to end your second day on the French Riviera.
Day 3 – The Medieval Village of Èze and the Glamour of Monaco
Day three combines two very different sides of the French Riviera: the timeless beauty of a medieval hilltop village and the modern glamour of one of the world’s smallest countries.
Morning in Èze Village
Perched high above the Mediterranean, Èze Village is one of the most spectacular destinations on the Côte d’Azur. The village sits dramatically on a rocky hilltop, offering panoramic views that stretch across the Riviera coastline.
Walking through Èze feels like stepping back in time. The narrow cobbled streets are lined with stone houses, bougainvillea-covered walls, and artisan boutiques.
Highlights include:
- Exploring the medieval alleyways
- Visiting local artisan shops and perfumeries
- Admiring the architecture of the old stone buildings
Visit the Exotic Garden of Èze
One of the most famous attractions in the village is the Jardin Exotique d’Èze, located at the highest point of the hill. The garden is filled with exotic plants, cacti, and sculptures, but the real highlight is the breathtaking view over the Mediterranean.
From the viewing platforms, you can see the coastline stretching from Nice all the way to the Italian border. This is easily one of the most unforgettable viewpoints on the French Riviera. For more tips and viewpoints, read this complete guide to visiting Èze Village.
Afternoon in Monaco
After exploring Èze, continue along the coast to Monaco, the glamorous principality famous for luxury yachts, casinos, and Formula 1 racing. Despite its reputation for luxury, Monaco is also full of beautiful historic areas and stunning viewpoints.
Explore Monaco-Ville (The Old Town)
Start in Monaco-Ville, the historic old town perched on a rocky promontory above the sea. Here you’ll find charming narrow streets, colourful buildings, and several of Monaco’s most important landmarks.
Must-see attractions include:
- The Prince’s Palace, home of Monaco’s royal family
- Saint Nicholas Cathedral, where Grace Kelly is buried
- The scenic viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean
Opening hours and attractions are listed on the Monaco tourism website.
Visit Monte Carlo and the Famous Casino Square
Next, head to the glamorous district of Monte Carlo. Even if you’re not planning to gamble, Casino Square is worth visiting for the atmosphere alone. Luxury cars line the square, and the Belle Époque architecture of the casino creates one of the most iconic scenes on the Riviera.
Nearby you’ll also find beautiful gardens and the elegant Hotel de Paris. You can easily explore the principality in one day with this perfect Monaco day trip itinerary.
Day 4 – Antibes and the Beautiful Cap d’Antibes
Located between Nice and Cannes, Antibes is one of the most charming towns on the French Riviera. With its historic old town, impressive marina, and scenic coastal paths, Antibes offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and seaside beauty.
Wander Through Antibes Old Town
Start your day exploring the Old Town of Antibes, a maze of narrow streets filled with colourful shutters, lively cafés, and small artisan boutiques. The town still retains much of its medieval character, and wandering without a fixed plan is one of the best ways to experience it. Be sure to visit:
- Marché Provençal, a traditional market selling local produce
- Small bakeries and wine shops tucked between stone buildings
- The charming squares dotted with café terraces
Walk the Historic Ramparts
One of the best things to do in Antibes is to walk along the historic ramparts, which were built to protect the town from sea invasions.
From the ramparts you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the snow-capped Alps in the distance during winter months. The coastal views here are some of the most beautiful on the French Riviera.
Explore Cap d’Antibes
In the afternoon, head to Cap d’Antibes, a lush peninsula known for its dramatic coastal scenery. One of the best ways to experience the area is by walking part of the Sentier du Littoral coastal path, which winds along rocky cliffs and hidden coves.
This scenic trail offers incredible views of the sea and passes several secluded beaches that are perfect for a swim on warm days.
Day 5 – Cannes and the Lérins Islands
Although Cannes is famous for its international film festival, the town offers much more than red carpets and luxury hotels. Beyond the glamorous façade, Cannes has a charming old quarter, beautiful beaches, and peaceful islands just offshore.
Walk Along Boulevard de la Croisette
Begin your day with a stroll along Boulevard de la Croisette, the elegant seaside promenade that defines Cannes. Palm trees line the boulevard, luxury hotels overlook the sea, and private beach clubs create a lively Riviera atmosphere. This is one of the most iconic waterfront promenades in the South of France.
Explore the Historic District of Le Suquet
After enjoying the seafront, head to Le Suquet, the historic heart of Cannes. This hilltop neighbourhood features winding cobbled streets, traditional houses, and stunning views over the harbour.
Climb to the top of the hill where you’ll find:
- Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance
- One of the best panoramic views of Cannes
Visit the Lérins Islands
In the afternoon, take a short boat trip to the Lérins Islands, located just off the coast of Cannes. These islands offer a peaceful escape from the busy Riviera towns.
The most popular island is Île Sainte-Marguerite, known for its pine forests, clear waters, and quiet walking trails. Things to do on the island include:
- Swimming in secluded coves
- Walking along scenic coastal paths
- Visiting the historic Fort Royal
Day 6 – Saint-Paul-de-Vence and the Provençal Countryside
Day six takes you slightly inland to discover one of the most beautiful villages in Provence: Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills, this medieval village is famous for its artistic heritage and stunning views.
Wander the Stone Streets of the Village
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is entirely pedestrian, making it perfect for wandering slowly through its narrow cobbled streets. Stone houses, ivy-covered walls, and flower-filled balconies create a magical atmosphere.
You’ll also find many art galleries and studios throughout the village. Artists such as Marc Chagall lived here, and the village continues to attract painters and sculptors from around the world.
Walk Along the Historic Ramparts
The medieval ramparts of Saint-Paul-de-Vence offer beautiful views across the Provençal countryside all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. Walking along the walls is one of the most peaceful experiences in the village and a perfect opportunity to admire the surrounding landscape.
Enjoy Lunch on a Terrace
After exploring the village, take time to enjoy a long Provençal lunch on one of the many terraces overlooking the valley. Many restaurants here serve traditional regional dishes such as:
- Ratatouille
- Fresh seafood
- Provençal vegetable dishes
- Rosé wine from nearby vineyards
Day 7 – Menton, the Colourful Town on the Italian Border
Finish your week on the French Riviera in Menton, one of the most colourful and charming towns on the coast. Located near the Italian border, Menton has a unique atmosphere influenced by both French and Italian culture.
Explore Menton Old Town
The old town of Menton climbs up the hillside above the harbour in a cascade of pastel-coloured buildings. Narrow stairways and winding streets lead to beautiful viewpoints overlooking the sea. The most iconic landmark here is the Basilica of Saint-Michel, a stunning baroque church that dominates the skyline.
Visit the Seaside Gardens
Menton is also known for its beautiful botanical gardens thanks to its mild climate. Some of the most famous gardens include:
- Jardin Serre de la Madone
- Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden
These gardens are filled with exotic plants from around the world and offer peaceful places to escape the busy waterfront.
Relax on Menton Beach
Before leaving the French Riviera, spend some time relaxing on one of Menton’s beaches. The calm waters and relaxed atmosphere make this one of the most pleasant seaside towns in the region. Finish your trip with a seaside dinner while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.
Where to Stay on the French Riviera (Best Base Towns)
Choosing the right base is important when planning a French Riviera itinerary. Many travellers choose to stay in Nice because it sits in the centre of the Côte d’Azur and has excellent train connections to nearby towns such as Monaco, Antibes, Cannes, and Menton.
Nice offers the widest range of accommodation, restaurants, and transport options, making it a convenient base for exploring the region. Other great options include Antibes, which has a charming old town and relaxed atmosphere, or Cannes, which is ideal if you want easy access to beaches and island excursions.
How to Travel Between French Riviera Towns
One of the advantages of visiting the French Riviera is how easy it is to travel between towns. Most destinations along the Côte d’Azur are connected by a scenic coastal train line, making day trips simple and convenient.
The regional TER train runs frequently between major Riviera destinations including Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Monaco, Menton, Antibes, and Cannes. Approximate travel times include:
- Nice ? Villefranche-sur-Mer: 7 minutes
- Nice ? Beaulieu-sur-Mer: 10 minutes
- Nice ? Monaco: 20 minutes
- Nice ? Antibes: 25 minutes
- Nice ? Cannes: 35–40 minutes
- Nice ? Menton: 40 minutes
The train journey itself is part of the experience, with beautiful views of the Mediterranean coastline along the way. For hilltop villages such as Èze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence, you can take regional buses from Nice or nearby towns.
Many travellers choose to stay in Nice as their base and take short train trips each day to explore different Riviera destinations.
You can check train schedules and ticket prices on platforms such as Trip.com or Omio.
Map of the French Riviera Itinerary
This map shows all the destinations included in this 7-day French Riviera itinerary. The route follows the coastline from Nice to Menton with stops in several of the most beautiful towns on the Côte d’Azur.
Is the French Riviera Worth Visiting?
The French Riviera is one of the most beautiful coastal regions in Europe and absolutely worth visiting. The Côte d’Azur combines turquoise Mediterranean waters, colourful seaside towns, elegant promenades, and medieval hilltop villages.
What makes the Riviera particularly special is how diverse the region is. In just a few days you can explore vibrant cities like Nice, glamorous Monaco, charming historic towns such as Antibes, and peaceful villages perched high above the sea.
For travellers looking for a mix of culture, scenery, beaches, and Mediterranean cuisine, the French Riviera offers an unforgettable experience.
For more inspiration and seasonal events, visit the official French Riviera tourism website.
Final Thoughts on This 7-Day French Riviera Itinerary
The French Riviera is one of those destinations that effortlessly combines elegance, natural beauty, and timeless charm.
In just seven days, you can wander through medieval villages, swim in turquoise Mediterranean waters, explore vibrant coastal towns, and enjoy some of the most beautiful landscapes in southern France.
And once you experience the Côte d’Azur for the first time, it’s easy to understand why travellers return to the French Riviera again and again.
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It has been far too long since we last visited the Cote d’Azur. But your post reminded me why we need to go back to the French Riviera. Your itinerary would get us a few return visits and some new stops too!
That’s the best kind of post — one that reminds you why somewhere deserves a return visit. The Côte d’Azur never really gets old does it!
This is a great itinerary! The French Riviera has been on my list ever since it got cut from our 4-month Europe itinerary (much to my dismay). I’ll have to save this for when I eventually get to visit!
Getting cut from an itinerary is always painful but at least now you have the perfect excuse for a dedicated trip — it deserves it!
That’s such an interesting article! I’ve never really considered the French Riviera but now you got me interested
It’s one of those places that surprises people! Once you start looking into it, it’s hard not to want to go immediately 😄
Such a wonderful itinerary. You’ve made all these places sound super worth visiting and I love all the photos😍
Thank you! The photos really do all the hard work don’t they — already dreaming of being there!
Your pictures are lovely. This area is definitely on my bucket list. I would love the old towns and more authentic villages.
Thank you so much! You absolutely have to visit — the old towns are my favourites too. Make sure to spend more time in smaller villages; that’s where you’ll really feel the authentic charm. I’d love to hear about it when you finally make it there!
this is such an awesome itinerary! it’s such a good selection of spots and i would most definitely be looking forward to Day 3 cos i love all things medieval!