The French Riviera is ideally discovered over the course of a week, taking time to fully enjoy its landscapes, iconic villages and unique art of living. This article offers several flexible itineraries designed for 4, 7 or 10 days, striking the perfect balance between culture, relaxation, gastronomy and exceptional panoramas.
4-Day Itinerary
The French Riviera welcomes you, between sea and sunlight, for your first taste of the Riviera.
Day 1 – Nice, Between Culture and Seaside
Start your day at the Cours Saleya flower market, a true explosion of colors and scents, perfect for soaking up the Niçoise atmosphere first thing in the morning. Then, stroll through Old Nice, with its cobbled streets, ochre façades, and artisanal shops. Place Masséna, with its fountains and elegant architecture, offers a striking contrast between tradition and modernity. In the afternoon, take the time to visit the Matisse Museum or the MAMAC to immerse yourself in local and contemporary art. End the day with a walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais and a short hike on the coastal path, which offers a golden panorama of the Mediterranean at sunset.
Day 2 – Villefranche-sur-Mer, Charm and the Sweet Life
Villefranche-sur-Mer charms visitors with its authenticity and spectacular natural harbor. Stroll through the old town with its colorful façades, then visit the Saint-Elme Citadel, a witness to the region’s maritime history. The afternoon is perfect for a break at Plage des Marinières, followed by an aperitif at the harbor, overlooking the boats. For a more exclusive experience, the private beach Casa Soleia offers an elegant and relaxed setting.
Day 3 – Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Mediterranean Elegance
The morning begins with a visit to the sumptuous Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and its themed gardens, where flowers, fountains, and sculptures create an enchanting setting. Then head to Plage de Passable for a relaxing moment or a refreshing swim. In the afternoon, a walk along the coastal path will allow you to discover unique views of the peninsula, or to stroll around the port of Saint-Jean. End the day in style with a drink at the Four Seasons Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, facing the sunset, for a moment of pure elegance.
Day 4 – Èze Village, Panorama and Gastronomy
Perched between the sea and the mountains, Èze can be explored by strolling through its colorful, cobbled medieval streets, both authentic and picturesque. Visit the Fragonard Museum to delve into the history of perfume, then be amazed by the Exotic Garden, with its cacti and exotic plants offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean. End the day with a gourmet dinner at La Chèvre d’Or to conclude this first stay in style.
7-Day Itinerary
A week allows you to fully immerse yourself in its villages and breathtaking landscapes.
Day 5 – Beaulieu-sur-Mer, The Art of Living
Start your day by visiting Villa Kérylos, a masterpiece inspired by Ancient Greece, then enjoy a brunch at Circé to soak up the local atmosphere. For lunch, don’t miss the African Queen, located on the harbor, a true city institution where you can savor refined Mediterranean cuisine while overlooking the yachts. Spend the afternoon at Plage de la Petite Afrique or Baie des Fourmis, before embarking on a boat ride—perfect for admiring the coastal landscapes from a different perspective.
Day 6 – Monaco, Prestige and Heritage
Stroll through the Condamine Market in the morning to feel the rhythm of the Principality. Watch the Changing of the Guard at the Prince’s Palace, then visit the Oceanographic Museum for an immersion into marine life. Take time to explore the Rock of Monaco, its narrow streets and scenic viewpoints, before admiring the famous Monte-Carlo Casino and the sumptuous gardens surrounding it at the end of the day.
Day 7 – Menton, Italian Flair and Gentle Living
Discover this city with an Italian flair, through its colorful streets and architectural heritage. Visit the Jean Cocteau Museum to admire the artist’s works, then stroll through the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden or the Serre de la Madone Garden, true green havens. End the day with an exceptional dinner at Mirazur, ranked among the world’s best restaurants, for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
10-Day Itinerary
Three additional days to explore its hidden gems and secret islands.
Day 8 – Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Art and Heritage
Wander through the cobbled streets of this perched medieval village, admire the ramparts, and discover its artists’ studios and art galleries. The Maeght Foundation will immerse you in the world of modern and contemporary art. For lunch, enjoy the view from the restaurant Les Remparts, offering the perfect setting between gastronomy and panoramic scenery.
Day 9 – Antibes & Cap d’Antibes, Nature and Culture
Visit the Picasso Museum to explore the artist’s world in his former studio, then set out for a walk along the Cap d’Antibes coastal path, lined with wild coves and untouched Mediterranean landscapes. The legendary Billionaires’ Bay offers a spectacular setting to admire yachts or enjoy peaceful swims. To extend your relaxation, you can also enjoy private beaches such as Plage Keller or Plage des Pêcheurs, perfect for an exclusive moment by the water.
Day 10 – Lérins Islands, A Timeless Escape
Take a boat from Cannes to explore the Lérins Islands. Sainte-Marguerite Island invites you to enjoy water activities and diving, allowing you to discover its preserved marine ecosystem. Have lunch at La Guérite, right by the water, before ending your stay in style, with memories and views that will stay etched in your mind.