Ultimate French Riviera Guide: Explore Nice, Cannes & Monaco

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Last updated: 24.10..2025

The French Riviera is a dream destination known for its luxurious charm and breathtaking coastal views. It offers a mix of glamour, culture, and natural beauty, attracting visitors around the world. Cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco boast stunning beaches, world-class dining, and vibrant cultural scenes. The region’s mild Mediterranean climate makes it ideal for year-round travel.

Whether you’re strolling along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, attending the Cannes Film Festival, or relaxing on the beaches of Saint-Tropez, the French Riviera offers something for every traveller. With its blend of elegance, history, and natural beauty, the French Riviera is a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of Mediterranean luxury.

Best Time to Visit French Riviera

The best time to visit the French Riviera depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you're looking for sunny days, the peak season runs from June to August, with warm temperatures perfect for beach days and outdoor activities. However, this is also when the region is most crowded, and accommodation prices are at their highest. For those seeking a more relaxed and budget-friendly trip, spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are the ideal times. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds have thinned out, and you can enjoy the beauty of the coast in peace. Winter on the French Riviera is milder than most European destinations, making it an excellent option for those seeking tranquility and fewer tourists.

Best Things to Do in the French Riviera

The French Riviera offers a multitude of attractions for every type of traveller, from beach lovers to culture enthusiasts.

Visit the Promenade des Anglais in Nice: A must-see in Nice, this famous seafront promenade offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Explore the Old Town of Nice (Vieux Nice): Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Vieux Nice, filled with colourful markets, charming shops, and delicious local food.
Stroll through the Cannes Film Festival’s Red Carpet: While visiting Cannes, walk along the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette, where you can spot the famous Palais des Festivals and the red carpet where the stars strut during the Cannes Film Festival.
Take a Yacht Tour in Monaco: For an extravagant experience, charter a yacht in Monaco and cruise the Mediterranean waters.

Discover the Best Beaches in French Riviera

The best beaches in the French Riviera are famous worldwide for their golden sands, clear blue waters, and incredible views. Whether you’re seeking a secluded spot or a lively beach club, exploring them as part of French Riviera tours is a wonderful way to experience the region’s charm.
Plage de Pampelonne (Ramatuelle): Located near Saint-Tropez, this is one of the most famous beaches in the French Riviera, known for its upscale beach clubs and crystal-clear waters.

Plage du Palais des Festivals (Cannes): If you're in Cannes, this beach is just steps from the festival centre and offers stunning views of the coastline.
Plage de la Mala (Cap d'Ail): A more secluded beach, accessible via a scenic coastal walk, perfect for those seeking a quiet spot away from the crowds.

Exploring Nice: Culture and Charm

Nice, the capital of the French Riviera, offers a delightful mix of culture, history, and seaside relaxation. The Old Town (Vieux Nice) is a maze of narrow streets lined with markets and colourful buildings, offering a vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to visit the Colline du Château for panoramic views of the city and coastline.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Nice is during spring and fall (April to June, September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.
Getting around: Nice offers a convenient public transport system, including trams, buses, and bike rentals, with most attractions within walking distance in the city center.
Currency: The currency used in Nice is the Euro (EUR), and credit cards are widely accepted.

340,000

people live in Nice, making it the fifth-largest city in France.
4 million

visitors Nice attracts
annually
300

cultural events are hosted annually
7

km of the Promenade des Anglais stretch along seafront

Monaco: Glamour and Luxury

Monaco is synonymous with luxury, and a visit here feels like stepping into a world of glamour and opulence. Don’t miss the famous Monte Carlo Casino, where you can try your luck in a setting fit for royalty. Monaco is also home to some of the world’s most expensive hotels and yachts, making it a playground for the rich.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Monaco is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is ideal and the crowds are smaller.
Getting around: Monaco is a small, walkable city, with efficient public transportation options like buses, as well as taxis and private transfers available for exploring nearby areas.
Currency: Monaco uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency, and credit cards are widely accepted throughout the city.

Note: Monaco is a hub of luxury, with must-see spots like the Monte Carlo Casino and Port Hercule, home to extravagant yachts. For a truly glamorous experience, indulge in dining at Le Louis XV or enjoy a private yacht tour along the stunning coastline.

Cannes: Luxury and Film Culture

Cannes is best known for its world-renowned Film Festival, attracting celebrities from around the globe. However, the city offers much more than just cinema. The Croisette is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with stunning views of the Mediterranean and luxury boutiques. The Le Suquet old town offers charming narrow streets and incredible views over the bay. Cannes is also home to some of the most luxurious hotels, perfect for those seeking an extravagant getaway.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Cannes is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is warm and the city is less crowded.
Getting around: Cannes is a compact city, easily explored on foot, with public buses and taxis available for travel to nearby areas.
Currency: Cannes uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency, and credit cards are widely accepted, though it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases or in markets.

Cannes is home to the world-famous Cannes Film Festival, which attracts over 20,000 industry professionals and 4,000 journalists annually. The festival is one of the most prestigious events in the film industry, drawing international celebrities and filmmakers to the city each year.

The French Riviera is a dream destination, offering the perfect blend of culture, glamour, stunning beaches, and world-class dining. Whether you’re relaxing on the best beaches in the French Riviera, exploring the charming streets of Nice, or soaking in the luxury of Monaco, the region offers something for every type of traveller. Use this French Riviera travel guide and discover Tours to France to plan the perfect Mediterranean escape, filled with unforgettable memories and breathtaking views.