14 French Riviera Cities Worth Visiting (And Ones to Skip!)

Last Updated on May 26, 2025 by April Nicole

French Riviera cities offer more than just beautiful beaches. They’re full of charm, history, and moments that stay with you long after your trip ends. After spending time exploring this stunning region, I’ve come to appreciate what makes each city along the Côte d’Azur truly special.

From sipping espresso in the pastel streets of Menton to finding quiet corners of Nice at sunset, these experiences helped me understand the real character of the Riviera. If you’re wondering which French Riviera cities are worth visiting, this guide will help you choose with confidence.

Inside, you’ll find 14 must-visit destinations, each with its own personality, standout attractions, and local gems. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning to explore more, these insights and tips will help you make the most of your journey.

(This guide was last updated in May 2025 to include the latest tips and itinerary ideas.)

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If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of must-visit French Riviera cities:

Top 14 Must-Visit French Riviera Cities

These are the top French Riviera cities for you to see while you go throughout the southern region of France. The majority of them are among the top attractions on the French Riviera.

1. Menton – The Picturesque Border

I took a day trip from Nice to Menton, expecting just a casual visit, but what I found was something magical. The moment I stepped off the train, I felt like I had wandered into a pastel dream. The buildings, painted in sun-faded yellows, pinks, and oranges, stacked gracefully against the hills, felt straight out of a fairytale. It was as if France and Italy had blended into one perfect place, where the elegance of the Riviera met the warmth of an Italian seaside town.

At a small café, I tried a homemade lemon tart, one of the best desserts I’ve ever had. Sitting there with an espresso, watching locals switch between French and Italian, I realized Menton was the perfect blend of both cultures. I had only planned to stay a few hours, but I knew I’d be back.

READ NEXT: My Personal Guide to Menton: What to See, Eat & Experience

2. Grasse – The Fragrance Capital

I never imagined creating my own perfume until I visited Grasse. At the Fragonard perfume workshop, I found myself in a room filled with tiny glass bottles, each containing an essence waiting to be blended. The perfumer guiding us explained how every scent tells a story.

After carefully choosing citrus, vanilla, and lavender notes, I crafted a fragrance that somehow felt like ‘me’ in a bottle. Every time I spray it at home, I’m transported back to that moment—the scent of endless summer in Grasse.

3. Toulon – The Naval Hub

I’ll be honest…Toulon wasn’t high on my list, but it surprised me in the best way. One morning, I took the cable car up Mont Faron. As we rose above the city, the Mediterranean stretched endlessly below, and I gasped at the sheer beauty of the view.

At the top, I wandered through a peaceful war memorial and then stumbled upon a tiny café serving the best pissaladière (a Provençal onion tart) I’ve ever had. Toulon, you unexpectedly stole my heart.

READ NEXT: Things to Do in Toulon That Made Me Want to Stay Forever

4. Cap-d’Ail – The Tranquil Paradise

I had never heard of Cap-d’Ail before, but a local in Monaco whispered, ‘Go to Plage Mala if you want the real Riviera.’ Following their advice, I hiked down a narrow, winding path lined with wildflowers and olive trees.

At the bottom, I found an untouched cove with water so clear it looked like liquid glass. I spent hours there, swimming and sipping a chilled rosé from the tiny beach bar. It felt like I had discovered my own private paradise.

5. Nice – The Vibrant Heart

Nice always feels like home. Every time I visit, I start my morning with a warm croissant from Boulangerie Jeannot before strolling the Cours Saleya market, where vendors call out in rapid French, tempting me with fresh socca. My favorite moment? Climbing up Castle Hill just before sunset.

The golden light spills over the city, painting the sea in hues of pink and orange. Sitting there, feet dangling over the edge, I remember why Nice will always be my favorite stop on the Riviera.

french riviera cities

6. Saint-Paul-de-Vence – The Medieval Jewel

I visited Saint-Paul-de-Vence expecting to see a charming medieval village, but I didn’t realize how much it revolved around art. Walking through the narrow streets, I passed countless galleries showcasing paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. While exploring, I stepped into a small, unmarked studio tucked away from the main square. Inside, an elderly artist was quietly working on a painting with deep blue tones.

I spent some time chatting with him about his work and the town’s artistic legacy. Before I left, he told me that many great artists, like Chagall, had been inspired by this place, and it wasn’t hard to see why.

7. Saint-Tropez – Glamorous Beachside

I always thought Saint-Tropez was all about luxury and celebrities, but my favorite moment there had nothing to do with that. One evening, I walked past the busy bars and ended up in a quiet side street. A group of locals was playing pétanque, laughing and drinking pastis.

One of them noticed me watching and handed me a ball, telling me to give it a try. I wasn’t great at it, but they didn’t seem to care. We played for a while, chatting in a mix of French and English. That night, instead of the flashy side of Saint-Tropez, I got to experience something simple and real.

french riviera cities

Find the best activities to do on the French Riviera!

8. Èze – The Hilltop Escape

Èze is the kind of place that makes you believe in fairytales. I remember wandering through its medieval alleys, each turn revealing tiny boutiques and ivy-clad stone walls. But the real magic happened at the Jardin Exotique.

From the top, the view stretched across the glittering Mediterranean, and I just stood there, taking it all in. Time slowed down, and for a moment, it felt like nothing else in the world existed except for me and that breathtaking view.

9. Saint-Raphaël – Coastal Charm

I hadn’t planned to visit Saint-Raphaël, but a quick stop turned into an afternoon of exploring. At the Old Port, I watched fishermen unload their catch while locals sipped pastis at cafés. Curious about the area, I followed the Sentier du Littoral, a coastal trail leading to stunning views of the Esterel Mountains’ red cliffs against the blue sea.

Before leaving, I grabbed a tarte tropézienne from a small bakery and ate it by the water. What was supposed to be a short break became one of my favorite stops on the Riviera.

french riviera cities

10. Cagnes-sur-Mer – The Artistic Coast

I stopped in Cagnes-sur-Mer without much expectation but quickly saw its charm. Walking through Haut-de-Cagnes, the medieval old town, I climbed to Grimaldi Castle for panoramic coastal views. A visit to the Renoir Museum let me step into the painter’s world, surrounded by his original workspace and peaceful gardens.

For lunch, I tried socca at a small bistro near the market. Sitting outside, watching locals go about their day, I realized Cagnes-sur-Mer isn’t flashy, but it leaves an impression in the best way.

11. Villefranche-sur-Mer – The Quiet Retreat

A short train ride from Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer felt like a quiet retreat. The colorful harbor, small fishing boats, and relaxed pace made it a perfect break from the busier Riviera spots.

I wandered through the Old Town, where a shop owner pointed me to Rue Obscure, a hidden medieval passage I would’ve missed. For lunch, I sat by the harbor with fresh seafood and white wine, watching the boats sway in the bay. Villefranche-sur-Mer isn’t a place to rush through—it’s a place to slow down and stay awhile.

french riviera cities

12. Monaco and Monte Carlo – Luxury Redefined

I took the short train ride from Nice to Monaco, curious to see what all the hype was about. The moment I stepped out of the station, I saw yachts bigger than houses, luxury cars at every corner, and designer shops lined up like a fashion show. It felt like stepping into another world.

I walked up to the Prince’s Palace, where I caught the Changing of the Guard before heading to the Monte Carlo Casino. I wasn’t planning on gambling, but I stepped inside just to take in the grandeur—golden chandeliers, velvet carpets, and an air of quiet confidence from the players at the tables.

Monaco is flashy, no doubt, but it’s worth visiting—even if just for a day to experience its unique mix of extravagance and history.

NEXT: How to Spend One Day in Monaco (From Someone Who’s Been!)

13. Antibes – Artistic Seaside

When I visited Antibes, I stopped at the Picasso Museum to see the works he created while living there. Standing in front of one of his blue period paintings, I finally understood why so many artists were drawn to this town.

After leaving the museum, I walked through the Old Town, grabbed a fougasse from a small bakery, and wandered into a tiny bookshop with an outdoor reading area. I sat down, flipped through a book, and ended up staying there longer than I planned. Antibes wasn’t just about museums or the sea—it was the kind of place that made you slow down and enjoy the moment.

NEXT: Where to Find the Best Beach Clubs in Antibes This Summer

french riviera cities

14. Cannes – Cinematic Charm

Cannes is best known for its film festival and luxury shopping. Walking down La Croisette, I passed designer stores, upscale hotels, and private beaches filled with sun loungers. It was as glamorous as I expected.

For a change of pace, I wandered into Le Suquet, the old town. The narrow cobbled streets and local restaurants made it feel more authentic. I climbed up to Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance, where I found a quiet spot overlooking the city and the sea.

Before leaving, I grabbed a drink at a small café, listening to locals chat while the sun set over the harbor. Cannes is flashy, but beyond the red carpets, there’s a side of the city that still feels effortlessly French.

NEXT: 15 Best Things to Do in Cannes, France (2025 Travel Guide)

Sample Itineraries for the French Riviera

3-Day French Riviera Itinerary (Highlights for First-Time Visitors)

👤 Best for: First-time visitors who want a mix of famous landmarks, beaches, and history.
🚆 Transport: Train + walking (no need for a car).
📍 Base: Nice

Day 1 – Nice & Villefranche-sur-Mer

☀️ Morning:

• Explore Old Town (Vieux Nice) – Wander the colorful alleys and stop by Cours Saleya market for fresh socca.
• Castle Hill (Colline du Château) – Climb up for a breathtaking panoramic view of Nice.

🌊 Afternoon:

• Take a short train ride (15 min) to Villefranche-sur-Mer – A stunning seaside village.
• Relax at Plage des Marinières, a scenic beach with crystal-clear waters.
• Visit Rue Obscure, a hidden medieval passageway.

🍷 Evening:

• Return to Nice for dinner at Le Plongeoir, a restaurant on a pier above the sea.

Day 2 – Monaco & Èze

🏎️ Morning:

• Take a 20-minute train ride to Monaco.
• Visit the Monte Carlo Casino and watch the luxury cars roll in.
• Explore the Prince’s Palace and catch the changing of the guard (11:55 AM).

🌿 Afternoon:

• Head to Èze (bus from Monaco, 25 mins).
• Wander the medieval village and admire the views from the Jardin Exotique.
• Tour the Fragonard perfume factory and create your own scent.

🥂 Evening:

• Dinner at Château Eza, a fine dining spot with an unbeatable sea view.

Day 3 – Cannes & Antibes

🎬 Morning:

• Take a 40-minute train ride to Cannes.
• Stroll along La Croisette Boulevard, where the Cannes Film Festival happens.
• Explore Le Suquet (Old Town) for panoramic views over the city.

🖼️ Afternoon:

• Take a 15-minute train to Antibes.
• Visit the Picasso Museum, housed in a historic château.
• Walk along the ramparts for stunning sea views.

🍷 Evening:

• Enjoy a sunset drink at Absinthe Bar, an underground speakeasy in Antibes.

7-Day French Riviera Itinerary (Ultimate Full Experience)

👤 Best for: Travelers who want a complete Côte d’Azur experience.
🚗 Transport: Car rental recommended for days 4-7.
📍 Base: Nice (Days 1-4), then move around.

Day 1 – Nice & Villefranche-sur-Mer

• Explore Old Town & Castle Hill.
• Afternoon: Relax at Villefranche-sur-Mer’s beach.

Day 2 – Monaco & Èze

• Morning: Monaco highlights (Casino, Prince’s Palace).
• Afternoon: Wander Èze & visit a perfume factory.

Day 3 – Antibes & Cannes

• Morning: Picasso Museum & Antibes Old Town.
• Afternoon: Cannes & its beaches.

Day 4 – Menton & Italian Border

• Take a train to Menton & enjoy its citrus gardens.
• Visit Ventimiglia, Italy, for a quick cross-border adventure.

Day 5 – Saint-Tropez

• Drive to Saint-Tropez.
• Enjoy Plage de Pampelonne & explore the charming town.

Day 6 – Grasse & Saint-Paul-de-Vence

• Visit Grasse’s perfume factories.
• Explore Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the artists’ village.

Day 7 – Hike the Esterel Mountains & Visit Saint-Raphaël

• Hike in the Esterel Mountains for unique red rock formations.
• Explore Saint-Raphaël’s beaches before heading home.

Final Thoughts on Must See French Riviera Cities

The French Riviera is more than just a destination—it’s a collection of experiences, from the glamour of Monaco to the quiet charm of Villefranche-sur-Mer. Whether you’re exploring medieval villages, relaxing on hidden beaches, or indulging in local cuisine, every city offers something unique.

If you’re planning a trip, use this guide to map out your perfect Riviera itinerary. And if you’ve already been, I’d love to hear about your favorite spots! Drop a comment below and share your experience.