I recently had the chance to explore the French Riviera. The region’s charm, stunning views, and charming coastal villages in the French Riviera made a lasting impression on me. It’s a place I had always dreamed of visiting, and now that I’ve been there, I want to share my experience with you.
I’ll take you through 7 of the most beautiful towns in the French Riviera. These towns offer a mix of modern elegance and rich history. If you’re planning a trip, you’ll also find luxury vacation rentals that offer a perfect base for your stay.
From lively seaside promenades to peaceful hilltop villages, each town has its own unique appeal. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the French Riviera has something for everyone.
Table of Content
7 Most Beautiful Towns in the French Riviera
Trust me, this place blew me away. From its stunning coastline to its vibrant culture, it’s a must-see for anyone planning a getaway in southern France. Here are the seven towns that won me over during my trip.
Let’s dive in!
1. Menton
Menton was the first place I visited on the French Riviera as I drove in from Italy. It’s strikingly beautiful with its colorful buildings complemented by the backdrop of the Maritime Alps. I stayed several days here, enjoying the laid-back charm of the city.
Menton, once part of Italy until 1860 when it and the rest of Nice County were added to France, is now one of the hidden gems among the top tourist attractions in France. There’s a great boardwalk that runs along the coast, and I enjoyed going out to the lighthouse pier to get panoramic views of Menton.
For those looking to extend their travels in France, consider adding Disneyland Paris holidays to your itinerary, as it offers a magical experience that’s just a short journey away.
2. Eze
Next, I head to the medieval town of Eze, perched on a hilltop looking over the French Riviera. I have to say, this was easily the coolest medieval place I visited in my time in southern France. Eze is a medieval town with origins dating back to the 14th century, making it a historical town in the French Riviera. It was just a short 30-minute drive from Menton.
Eze was founded during the Middle Ages around the 14th century and today is known worldwide for its medieval vibe and stunning views. I parked in a lot at the base of Eze, then walked up the winding stairs and cobblestone paths through the village.
It feels like you’re walking back in time—everything is so old and perfectly preserved, with tunnel walkways and trees built around the old structures. One of the main features is the exotic garden at the top, with beautiful plants and cactuses, and an incredible view of the French Riviera. It’s worth the six-euro entry fee.
3. Monaco
After Eze, I visited Monaco, located between Eze and Menton. Monaco is the second smallest country after Vatican City. Known as a billionaire’s playground, over one-third of Monaco’s citizens are millionaires. Monaco attracts the wealthy, especially because of its tax haven status—there are no income taxes, and other tax rates are extremely low.
The Monte Carlo Casino is one of the most famous spots in Monaco, and it was opened in 1863. It has been featured in several James Bond films. I just drove through Monaco to check it out—it was wild to think of all the money in such a tiny country.
4. Nice
Next up, I am visiting Nice, the capital of the Maritime Alps. Nice is the second-largest city on the French Riviera after Marseille. If you’re flying into the French Riviera, Nice is probably the best airport to come into. I didn’t spend much time in the city, but its beautiful beaches and vibrant promenade are enough to make it a fantastic base for exploring the region.
5. Cannes
Located about 40 minutes from Nice, Cannes is famous for its association with the rich and famous and the Cannes Film Festival. Cannes also offers one of the most beautiful coastlines on the French Riviera, the Esterel, with red rock cliffs diving into the Mediterranean.
It’s breathtaking to drive along the coastline and stop at various lookout points. I loved seeing this landscape—it felt like the American southwest, but with the Mediterranean Sea as the backdrop.
6. Saint-Tropez
Now, I visit Saint-Tropez, a small town that grew from a fishing village to a favorite among jet-setters. It’s known for its beaches, nightlife, and luxury yachts. I loved walking around the narrow streets, and the citadel, built in the 1620s, offers amazing views.
Saint-Tropez is a must-see on the French Riviera if you want to experience some of its legendary charm. It’s easily one of the top French Riviera towns to visit for those looking for glamour and history combined.
7. Cassis
Finally, I headed to Cassis, which turned out to be my favorite place in southern France. It’s a seaside town with picturesque beaches, a quaint harbor, and incredible cliffs. The real highlight for me was the Calanques, a series of inlets surrounded by towering cliffs. Renting a boat from the harbor to explore these was one of the most memorable experiences. If you’re looking for a laid-back spot with breathtaking views, Cassis is the place to be.
For an extended stay, there are many vacation rentals on the French Riviera, where you can enjoy the beauty of the coast and relax in comfort. If you’re interested in exploring more of France, consider taking a Loire Valley castles tour to see some of the country’s most breathtaking architectural gems and rich history.
Conclusion
The French Riviera isn’t just a place; it’s a feeling. A feeling of discovery, wonder, and connection that lingers long after you’ve left its sun-kissed shores. Each village, from the charming Eze to the vibrant streets of Nice, offers a piece of something extraordinary, waiting for you to uncover. You’ll be amazed whether you’re visiting romantic or quaint towns on the French Riviera.
The best things to do in the French Riviera will leave you in awe. You’re not just visiting a destination—you’re experiencing a life-changing journey that will resonate deeply within your heart. Don’t wait for tomorrow to live your dream; the French Riviera is waiting to welcome you, and it’s ready to leave a mark on your soul.
Whether you’re visiting romantic towns on the French Riviera or exploring quaint towns on the French Riviera, you’re bound to be amazed. You’re not just visiting a destination—you’re experiencing a life-changing journey that will resonate deeply within your heart. Don’t wait for tomorrow to live your dream; the French Riviera is waiting to welcome you, and it’s ready to leave a mark on your soul.
FAQs
The most beautiful towns in the French Riviera include Nice, Cassis, Cannes, Eze, Monaco, Saint-Tropez, and Menton. Each offers its unique charm and stunning views.
If you’re looking for a relaxing experience, Menton is perfect. Its quiet atmosphere, beautiful harbor, and charming streets offer a peaceful escape.
Absolutely! Saint-Tropez is famous for its glamorous vibe, beautiful beaches, and historic charm. Whether you’re a fan of luxury or history, there’s something for everyone.
The French Riviera is ill-connected by trains and buses. Renting a car is also a great way to explore the smaller towns and enjoy the scenic drives along the coast.
The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) or early fall (September to October). The weather is perfect, and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months.
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