The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is one of the most glamorous and sought-after destinations in Europe. Known for its sun-kissed beaches, azure waters, luxurious resorts, and charming old towns, it offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re in search of cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, or simply relaxation by the Mediterranean, the French Riviera has it all. If you have five days to explore this stunning coastline, here’s the perfect itinerary to help you make the most of your time.

Day 1: Nice – The Heart of the Riviera

Start your journey in Nice, the capital of the French Riviera. Known for its vibrant culture, beautiful promenade, and artistic history, Nice offers a perfect blend of history, art, and modernity.

Morning:

• Promenade des Anglais: Begin your day with a leisurely walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais. Stretching for several kilometers along the sea, it offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the bustling city of Nice.
• Old Town (Vieux Nice): After your walk, head into the narrow streets of Vieux Nice. Wander through colorful markets, stop by the Cours Saleya to admire the flower and food markets, and grab a coffee in one of the many charming cafés.

Afternoon:

• Castle Hill (Colline du Château): Climb or take the elevator up to Castle Hill for panoramic views of the city and the coastline. While at the top, explore the remnants of the old Château de Nice and enjoy the lush gardens.
• Musée Marc Chagall: Visit the Marc Chagall Museum, which houses a stunning collection of works by the famous Russian-French artist, including some of his most notable biblical paintings.

Evening:

• Dinner in Old Town: Enjoy dinner at one of the many traditional restaurants in Vieux Nice. Try the local specialty, socca (chickpea pancake), and pair it with a glass of local wine.

Day 2: Cannes – Glitz and Glamour

On Day 2, head to Cannes, a town world-famous for its film festival and luxurious lifestyle.

Morning:

• La Croisette: Start your day with a stroll down Boulevard de la Croisette, Cannes’ most famous street. Lined with luxury hotels, designer boutiques, and glamorous cafés, it’s a great place for people-watching and soaking in the chic atmosphere.
• Le Suquet: Explore the charming Old Town of Cannes, known as Le Suquet. Wander through cobbled streets, visit the Notre-Dame d’Espérance Church, and enjoy incredible views of the city and the Mediterranean from the hilltop.

Afternoon:

• Palais des Festivals: No visit to Cannes is complete without seeing the iconic Palais des Festivals, home to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Snap a photo on the famous red carpet and explore the surrounding area, which is dotted with luxury shops and restaurants.
• Îles de Lérins: Take a short boat trip to the nearby Lérins Islands. The islands are peaceful and offer hiking trails, vineyards, and beautiful beaches. Visit the Abbey of Lerins on Saint-Honorat Island and relax on the sandy shores of Sainte-Marguerite Island.

Evening:

• Dinner by the Sea: For dinner, opt for one of Cannes’ waterfront restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.

Day 3: Antibes – Old World Charm

Day 3 takes you to Antibes, a charming seaside town with an enchanting old town and a rich history.

Morning:

• Old Town (Vieil Antibes): Start your day by wandering through the cobblestone streets of Antibes’ Old Town. Visit the historic Fort Carré, which dates back to the 16th century, and admire the charming Provençal architecture.
• Marché Provençal: Explore the Provençal market in the heart of Antibes, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, local cheeses, and other regional specialties.

Afternoon:

• Musée Picasso: Head to the Picasso Museum, located in the Château Grimaldi. This museum showcases works by the legendary artist who lived in Antibes for a period. It offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and the town’s harbor.
• Port Vauban: Visit the famous Port Vauban, home to some of the world’s most luxurious yachts. Stroll along the dock and admire these magnificent vessels, or enjoy a drink at one of the nearby cafés.

Evening:

• Dinner in Old Town: For dinner, enjoy a meal in one of Antibes’ charming restaurants in the Old Town. Try the local dish, bouillabaisse (a traditional Mediterranean fish stew), and enjoy the local wines.

Day 4: Monaco – Luxury and Glamour

Day 4 brings you to the glamorous Monaco, a small but incredibly wealthy principality perched on the cliffs along the Mediterranean.

Morning:

• Prince’s Palace of Monaco: Start your day with a visit to the Prince’s Palace, located in Monaco-Ville, the old town of Monaco. Watch the changing of the guard and take a tour of the state apartments, which offer stunning views of the harbor.
• Monaco Cathedral: Visit the nearby Monaco Cathedral, the final resting place of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace. The cathedral is an example of Romanesque architecture and offers a peaceful atmosphere.

Afternoon:

• Casino de Monte-Carlo: No trip to Monaco would be complete without visiting the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo. Even if you’re not a gambler, the building itself is worth a visit, and you can take a guided tour of the opulent interior.
• Jardin Exotique: Head to the Jardin Exotique, a beautiful garden filled with rare and exotic plants, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs and the Mediterranean.

Evening:

• Dinner with a View: End your day with dinner at one of Monaco’s high-end restaurants overlooking the sea. Indulge in French cuisine while taking in the stunning views of the harbor, yachts, and the Mediterranean.

Day 5: Saint-Tropez – Sun, Sea, and Style

On your final day, head to the famed Saint-Tropez, a destination known for its glamorous beaches and vibrant nightlife.

Morning:

• Old Port and Town: Start your day in the Old Port area, where you can admire the luxury yachts and stroll along the waterfront. Explore the cobbled streets of the Old Town and visit the Citadel for panoramic views over the town and the sea.
• Place des Lices: Visit the famous Place des Lices, a central square where locals and visitors alike play pétanque (a traditional French game) in the shade of plane trees. It’s a quintessential part of the Saint-Tropez experience.

Afternoon:

• Beaches of Pampelonne: Spend the afternoon at the world-famous beaches of Pampelonne. These glamorous, sandy beaches attract celebrities and visitors from around the world. Relax by the sea, enjoy a drink at one of the trendy beach clubs, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
• Musée de l’Annonciade: Visit the Musée de l’Annonciade, an art museum that features works from some of the most famous artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, including Paul Signac and Henri Matisse.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Beachfront Restaurant: End your French Riviera adventure with a sunset dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy fresh seafood, local specialties, and cocktails while taking in the view of the Mediterranean.

Conclusion

The French Riviera offers a perfect blend of luxury, culture, and natural beauty. With this 5-day itinerary, you’ll experience the best of the region, from the vibrant streets of Nice to the glitz and glamour of Monaco, and the laid-back charm of Saint-Tropez. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, exploring historic sites, or indulging in world-class cuisine, the French Riviera promises an unforgettable escape.