A journey through timeless elegance, Mediterranean rhythm, and sun-drenched discovery
The Côte d’Azur — the French Riviera — evokes images of glamour and grace, but beneath the surface of seaside chic lies a region rich in soul, history, and slow pleasures. Whether you're wandering cliffside paths or sipping rosé in a sleepy village square, here are ten ways to fall under its spell.
Lose yourself in the ochre-toned alleyways of Vieux Nice, where the scent of lavender mingles with fresh socca from the market. Visit the Cours Saleya, bustling with flowers and Provençal produce, then climb Castle Hill for panoramic views over the turquoise bay.
Perched like a dream above the sea, Èze is all medieval charm and winding stone lanes. Don’t miss the Jardin Exotique — a lush cliffside garden with sweeping views of the Côte — or a glass of wine with the sea sparkling below you.
The light of the Riviera has inspired generations of artists. See Matisse in Nice, Picasso in Antibes, and Chagall in his dedicated museum. For a hidden gem, visit the chapel in Vence, entirely designed by Matisse — a quiet, moving tribute to light and line.
Just off the coast of Cannes lie the Lérins Islands — peaceful, pine-covered and steeped in history. Île Sainte-Marguerite holds the mystery of the Man in the Iron Mask, while Île Saint-Honorat is home to a working monastery producing wines and liqueurs.
The Provençal market in Antibes is a feast for the senses. Taste olives, artisan cheeses, and sun-ripened fruit — and don’t leave without a bunch of wild herbs. Afterward, take a walk along the city walls, where the sea crashes just below.
For those who seek something wilder, the Esterel Massif offers crimson cliffs, secret coves, and hikes that lead to hidden swimming spots. Bring water shoes, a picnic, and a sense of adventure.
The Côte d’Azur’s inland regions are dotted with elegant rosé-producing estates. Visit a family-run vineyard, walk among the vines, and enjoy a chilled glass under the shade of an old plane tree. Summer in a glass.
Head inland to Mougins, Tourrettes-sur-Loup or La Garde-Freinet for long lunches in quiet village squares. Menus here reflect the season: think stuffed courgette flowers, grilled fish, and fresh fig tarts — always paired with local wine and never rushed.
This walled village glows in the golden hour. Once a haven for artists and writers, Saint-Paul offers narrow alleys, art galleries, and a stillness that feels sacred. Find a west-facing terrace, order something sparkling, and let the sky put on its show.
To truly experience the Côte d’Azur, stay in a place that reflects its rhythm — a villa tucked between olive trees, a bastide with views over the hills, or a home where sea breezes drift through open shutters.
Explore our handpicked accommodations in the Côte d’Azur.
Here, you're not just in the Riviera — you're part of it.