Things to do in
French Riviera

From its glamorous beach resorts to its pretty hilltop villages, this coastline has charm in spades.

Our most recommended things to do in French Riviera

From Nice: French Riviera in One Day

1. From Nice: French Riviera in One Day

Explore the landscapes and towns of the French Riviera on this day trip from Nice. Travel in a spacious and air-conditioned bus to stunning destinations like the charming village of Èze, Monaco, and Cannes. Begin with a pickup from your hotel or other desired location in Nice between 8:10 AM and 8:45 AM. Kickstart a day of adventure with a visit to the "Moyenne Corniche" for 15 minutes. Enjoy the panoramic view of the port of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Take a unique trip and visit the medieval village of Èze. Admire the splendid panorama of this beautiful location and discover the secrets of perfume with a free guided tour of the Fragonard perfumery. Your next stop is the Principality of Monaco, where you have time to discover the old town, the cathedral, the palace and the ceremony of the changing of the guard. Next, continue along the Formula 1 circuit to Monte Carlo with its casino and upscale shops. Have lunch in one of the many excellent restaurants in Monaco. Around 1:00 PM, your driver-guide will take you to Antibes, a city that combines nautical traditions and luxury pleasures. Visit the old town, the biggest marina of business and luxury in Europe—the port of the billionaires. Head to your next stop, Saint-Paul-De-Vence. Marvel at the "jewel of Provence", where many painters and artists have resided. As you walk the streets of this medieval fortified village, you can taste centuries of history and artistic creativity. For your last destination, make way to the famous city of stars—Cannes. Explore the Beverly Hills of France, and take a stroll on the famous Croisette, enjoy luxury hotels, restaurants and shops. Above all, set foot on the famous red carpet festival film, like Hollywood stars.

From Cannes: Round-Trip Ferry to Ste. Marguerite Island

2. From Cannes: Round-Trip Ferry to Ste. Marguerite Island

Book your round-trip ferry tickets in advance for a visit to Ste. Marguerite Island from Cannes. As soon as you disembark on the island, you’ll be captivated by the fragrance of pine and eucalyptus. Follow the marked trails that take you on a botanical and historical tour of the island. The walk takes you by Batéguier Pond, where numerous species of migratory birds can be seen, and to the Pointe de la Convention, where you’ll find unique plant species. Continue on to Fort Royal, the former residence of the legendary Man in the Iron Mask. The Maritime Museum, sheltered within a fortified enclosure, also offers an invaluable insight into the area's history. Dogs are welcome on board the ferry, and on Sainte Marguerite Island, provided they are on leash.

Nice: 1 or 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

3. Nice: 1 or 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

See the sights of Nice at your own pace and enjoy panoramic views from an open-top bus. Purchase a 1-day or 2-day pass for the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus and enjoy unlimited sightseeing opportunities. You can redeem your voucher on board the bus at any stop along the route. Once on board, listen to an informative commentary via the audio guide. Get information on the most popular things to see and attractions to visit. Choose how much time you want to spend at each attraction and travel comfortably between sites. Tour duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes. Stops are as follows: 1. Quai des Etats-Unis : 99 Quai des Etats-Unis, 06300 Nice 2. Massenet-Promenade des Anglais Nord : 2, Promenade des Anglais 3. Congrès - Promenade des Anglais Nord : 30, Promenade des Anglais 4. Eglise Russe / Gambetta : 47, Avenue Thiers 5. Gare SNCF Poste Thiers : 23, Avenue Thiers 6. Congrès-Promenade des Anglais Sud : Opposite 15, Promenade des Anglais (sea side) 7. Cathédrale / Vieille Ville : 22, Boulevard Jean Jaurès, Nice 8. Port Lympia/Carnot : 1, Boulevard Carnot, Nice 9. Villefranche Octroi Sud : Opposite 10, Avenue Maréchal Foch 10. Villefranche Citadelle : Place Emmanuelle Philibert 11. Villefranche Octroi Nord : 2, Avenue Maréchal Foch 12. Ile de Beauté – Port Nord : Opposite 5, Place Ile de Beauté

From Nice: Eze, Monaco, & Monte-Carlo Half-Day Trip

4. From Nice: Eze, Monaco, & Monte-Carlo Half-Day Trip

Be picked up from your accommodation in Nice in the morning or in the afternoon. Enjoy a panoramic view of Nice and the bays of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. In Èze, have the opportunity to visit the medieval village like an eagle's nest. You can also take a free guided tour of Fragonard Perfumery to learn more about the perfume-making process. Next, be driven to Monaco and take a walk in the old town. Discover the princely palace and explore the town and its neo-Romanesque cathedral. Also see the famous Casino Square, the Grand Casino, luxury boutiques, and Café de Paris. A ride on the Monaco Grand Prix circuit awaits you from Monaco to Monte Carlo.

Nice: Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour

5. Nice: Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour

Discover France’s most scenic landscapes on a full-day trip to Castellane, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, and the Verdon Gorge from Nice. See the iconic Lavender Fields and learn about these picturesque locations from your guide. Be picked up from your hotel or home address in Nice. Depart with your driver to the hills of your countryside destination. Cross the "gorge of the wolf", complete with its 40-meter-high waterfall, before stopping at Castellane. Whilst traveling along the Verdon (named for its astonishing turquoise green color), enjoy spectacular views of the 700-meter-deep canyon. Afterward, move on to the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, nestled under a rocky cliff and surrounded by mountains from all sides. Known for its rich history in ceramic craftsmanship, you will have free time here to explore Moustiers at your leisure. Discover the earthenware in the stores, and buy souvenirs before lunch in one of the terrace cafes. Photograph the world-famous lavender platters, or enjoy the lake of St. Croix, an artificial treasure of clear water that is one of the most beautiful lakes of Provence. Then, marvel at the endless lavender fields at the foot of the Alps and stop to take unique and memorable pictures with this impressive backdrop. Stop to smell the light and enchanting lavender aroma surrounding you as you do. After enjoying your trip, return to your vehicle at which point you will be driven back to your point of origin in Nice. Nb: Lavender season runs from approximately mid-June to mid-August.

From Cannes: Ferry Tickets to Sainte-Marguerite Island

6. From Cannes: Ferry Tickets to Sainte-Marguerite Island

Discover the isle of Sainte-Marguerite of the Lérins Islands with this round-trip ferry ticket from Cannes. Enjoy the day at your own pace, walking, sunbathing, and swimming. See the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask’s cell and explore the island’s tranquil forest, coves, and beaches. Upon arrival, choose to take a walk through the forest along the shore near the Bateguier pond, an ideal place for birdwatching. Continue to the must-see Royal Fort, where you can travel back to antique times and learn the island’s history. At the fort, find the Man in the Iron Mask’s cell and visit the Museum of the Sea with its large collection of underwater archeology. For lunch, stop at a restaurant near the water or enjoy a picnic on the beach before returning to Cannes. 

From Nice: Round-Trip Transportation to Saint Tropez by Boat

7. From Nice: Round-Trip Transportation to Saint Tropez by Boat

Reach the charming city of St. Tropez by boat in just 2.5 hours from Nice. Enjoy the views of the French Riviera along the way, and spend the afternoon exploring the city that is emblematic of Provence. Admire the harbor and visit the many boutiques and the well-known market at the Place des Lices. See the Citadelle, Quartier de la Ponche, Annonciade Museum and more during your visit. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase on board. The ticket provides round-trip transportation between Nice and St. Tropez. The boat departs Nice at 09:00 AM and arrives in St. Tropez at 11:30 AM. The return trip departs St. Tropez at 04:30 PM, arriving in Nice at 07:00 PM.

Nice: Riviera Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry

8. Nice: Riviera Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry

Experience the best of Nice's nightlife and meet a bunch of new friends from all around the world. Join a team of friendly and international night guides who will take you through four bars, all located in heart of Nice's Old Town. Included on the tour are visits to top bars famous for their exciting nightlife. In all four bars, you will be offered shots for free and various discounts on drinks.  Throughout the night, the guides will entertain you with different activities, such as beer pong or limbo, all of which will bring you closer together with the rest of the guests. The tickets, of course, also include VIP entry to all the bars.

From Nice: 2-Hour Scenic Drive by 3-Wheel Vehicle

9. From Nice: 2-Hour Scenic Drive by 3-Wheel Vehicle

Experience the French Riviera by unique 3-wheel vehicle and have fun along the way. Depart Nice and journey from the port of Nice with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face aboard the open-top car. Each car can safely seat 2 people and lead by our super guide Don't be shy while driving - people will look at you in wonder, and you'll be the envy of the highway! Zoom down the coast and see it brought to life in a truly novel way. Pass picturesque locations, such as Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. Drive up Mont Alban for a panoramic view, and go to the only sand beach in the area at Villefranche-sur-Mer. Continue along the coast and see the beautiful Peninsula of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat Then, get stunning views of Nice Harbor as you enter the city back to the meeting point.

From Cannes: Discover the Calanques of the Esterel

10. From Cannes: Discover the Calanques of the Esterel

Embark on a discovery expedition of the Esterel, its hidden caves, and its typical Mediterranean scenery. Join a boat trip departing from Cannes and enjoy the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters. Take in views of striking waterfront panoramas and tranquil bays. Join your professional skipper aboard a semi-rigid boat. Embark at the meeting point in Cannes and set sail toward the Esterel. Sit back and relax as you explore this extraordinary coastline, with its stunning beaches and secret coves, accessible only by boats. Uncover the mysteries of the Corniche d'Or coastline with our local skipper.

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What people are saying about French Riviera

Overall rating

4.5
(14,929 reviews)

A thoroughly enjoyable day travelling by train and bus. The scenery was spectacular and the trip brought to life by Cyril, our guide and his able assistant William. The museum at Tende was modern, and its contents intriguing. The itinerary is well thought through with plenty of recovery breaks, from the mini hikes at each village. It was my partners birthday on the day and a wedding proposal, which took the group by surprise. Cyril was instrumental in making the whole day very special, including these special occasions. I'd highly recommend taking this tour before the Tende train stops running in the autumn. Michelle and Andy

Our guide Cycy was amazing! Thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this tour. Cycy was professional, personable and explained all the stops and facts about the points of interest with a healthy dose of fun and humour thrown in! I can highly recommend this tour especially if you get to enjoy it with Cycy! Thankyou once again Cycy for a day I will truly remember ❤️ Julie-Anne x Australia

The trip was fantastic! Our tour guide Nabil shared with us a lot of interesting historical information in each place. The villages are beautiful, there were a lot of time for sightseeing and for resting. I strongly recommend going on that trip if you like history and visiting historical places.

Lots of fun, great hosts, plenty of room on the boat, good food and lots of wine. Nothing not to like! Will do again on next trip to Nice

Daniel was an exceptional guide and very engaging. We enjoyed our time with him so much! The little bus is fantastic!