French Riviera Travelers Recommend

Famous for the high-octane thrills of its Formula One Grand Prix track and the glitzy casinos lining its waterfront, Monaco draws travelers from around the globe. Here are a few ways you can experience the high life on the French Riviera on a trip from Nice.

Half-Day Tours

With medieval villages such as Èze and La Turbie within easy reach of Nice, there are plenty of ways to add a little bit of countryside adventure to your Monaco trip. Spin along the Grande Corniche road for coastal views, discover Roman ruins hidden in the hills, or soak up the Monaco sun in this historic corner of southern France. With hotel pickup and round-trip transport from Nice typically included, it’s easy to make the most of your time on the French Riviera.

Full-Day Tours

Full-day tours from Nice to Monaco offer a more in-depth experience, whisking travelers along the Grande Corniche roads to places of interest, including historic Èze, glamorous Cannes, and Monte Carlo, where medieval history and high-rolling casinos are the order of the day. Visit the famous Fragonard perfumery, see stars’ handprints near the Film Festival Palace in Cannes, and head to Antibes, where luxury yachts bob gracefully on the waters of Billionaire’s Quay. 

Things to Know

• Monaco is 12 miles (20 kilometers) to the east of Nice, a drive of about 40 minutes.

• Visitors to the French Riviera should carry plenty of water and bring sunscreen and a hat to protect from the near-constant sunshine.

• Tours from Nice typically include pickup and drop-off at your Nice hotel, plus roundtrip transportation.

With its beaches and promenades, elegant restaurants and art museums, Nice offers plenty of tempting, sun-drenched attractions. The capital of the Côte d’Azur is also a perfectly situated jumping-off point for further Riviera explorations. From local explorations to day-trip destinations, here’s how to plan a 3-day stay.

Day 1: Sightseeing by Land and Sea

A morning hop-on hop-off bus tour is an easy way to get acquainted with Nice’s landmarks and neighborhoods. Alternatively, book a Segway or e-bike tour to zip efficiently around town. In the afternoon, complement your city tour with a boat excursion on the Baie des Anges. Admire Nice from the water, sail past glitzy yachts, and spot other coastal destinations, from the Cap d’Antibes to Cannes; there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the tranquil, Mediterranean ambiance. Once the sun begins to set, venture to a neighborhood restaurant to sample regional specialties such as ratatouille, or, to end the day on a high note—quite literally—book an evening helicopter flight for yet another perspective on Nice’s charms.

Day 2: Food and Culture

Dedicate your second day in Nice to creature comforts and cultural highlights. Begin the morning with a market tour; see how the locals shop, nibble pastries and other treats, and get acquainted with the city’s sights and smells. In the afternoon, retreat to one of Nice’s banner art museums—the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain) or the Nice Fine Arts Museum (Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nice)—or delve into the work of individual artists at the Musée Marc Chagall or the Musée Matisse. Wind down the day in style: Enjoy an aperitif before venturing to one of Nice’s many Michelin-starred eateries. Finish with a stroll down the Promenade des Anglais or a nightcap in one of the city’s grand hotels.

Day 3: Riviera Adventures

Nice’s convenient, seaside setting means that it’s within easy day-trip distance of many of the region’s top destinations. Book a small-group or private day tour and venture to area attractions ranging from Saint-Paul-de-Vence (a medieval hilltop town) and Antibes (a glittering, coastal haven for the wealthy) to Èze (renowned for its perfume industry) and Cannes (long the province of the rich and famous). Illustrious Monaco, star-studded St. Tropez, and scenic Italian cities such as Sanremo are likewise just a quick trip away. For an alternative escape, explore world-class vineyards in Provence’s wine country.

With medieval villages, sweeping coastal scenery, fertile vineyards, bustling food markets, and sun-soaked beaches, the French Riviera is the jewel in southern France’s crown. Here are a few ways to explore the Cote d’Azur, using Nice as a base.

Half-Day Tours

Nice lies within easy reach of medieval villages and glamorous destinations including Antibes, Cannes, Èze, and Monaco—and half-day tours are a great way to see the best of the areas of your choosing. Stroll along Cannes’ La Croisette Boulevard, catch the Changing of the Guard at Monaco's Royal Palace, or explore the historic streets of Èze, where life ticks by at a relaxing pace. With hotel pickup and round-trip transport from Nice typically included, you’re free to see the sites and soak up the sunshine in style.

Full-Day Tours

Leaving from the seaside city of Nice, full-day tours take in diverse destinations along the French Riviera and beyond so travelers can discover more of what the south of France has to offer. Roll the dice in the glitzy casinos of Monte Carlo and watch luxury yachts bobbing in the harbor in Monaco, or head along the coast to medieval villages such as Èze and sample delicate wines among the vineyards of Provence.

Things to Know

• Nice is 13 miles (21 kilometers) west of Monaco and 20 miles (33 kilometers) east of Cannes. Both are under an hour’s drive from Nice.

• Bring a water bottle and sun protection—the French Riviera is famous for its sunshine, and the midday rays can be strong.

• Tours from Nice typically include pickup and drop-off at centrally located Nice hotels and roundtrip transportation.

St-Tropez on the French Riviera is more than a hangout for A-list celebrities and European jet-setters—its historic old town, lively market, and coastline make it popular with day-trippers and cruise visitors along France’s Côte d’Azur. Here are the best ways to see St. Tropez from Nice.

Group Tours

On a full-day group tour by road from Nice to St-Tropez, you might drive through the Maures Forest with a stop in picturesque Port Grimaud along the way. With your guide, take in the sights of St-Tropez, such as the yacht-filled old port, Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Church, the Citadel of St-Tropez (Citadelle de St-Tropez), or the Annonciade Museum. Some tours include an optional boat ride, with small-group and sunset tours available. Alternatively, take a seasonal spring or summer ferry from Nice to St-Tropez and enjoy coastal views as you sail along the French Riviera.

Private Tours

Experience Port Grimaud and St-Tropez according to your interests by booking a private tour from Nice. Together with your guide, you’ll plan your day just as you’d like, which might include exploring historic houses and canal ways of Port Grimaud, stopping for photos along the Côte d’Azur, and strolling down the designer shopping streets in St-Tropez. Try a private tour of St-Tropez after dark to get a taste of the village’s nightlife.

Things to Know

• Full-day sightseeing tours typically last eight to nine hours.

• Bring extra money for meals and snacks.

• The drive from Nice to St-Tropez takes about two hours; the ferry ride lasts about two and a half hours.

• The market in St-Tropez is open on Tuesday and Saturday mornings.

• Depending on your tour, pickup is available from many Nice hotels. In case of hotel pickup, plan to depart 30 to 60 minutes earlier than stated departure time.

Home to three world-famous perfumeries—Fragonard, Galimard, and Molinard—and surrounded by fields of lavender, rose, and jasmine, Grasse is known as France’s perfume capital. This hilltop medieval town lies just north of Cannes, along the French Riviera, making it a popular choice for a day trip. Here are your options.

Grasse Tours from Cannes

Just a 30-minute drive from Cannes, Grasse offers a tranquil alternative to the coastal resorts. Full-day tours often combine a walking tour of Grasse with stops in nearby villages such as St. Paul de Vence, Gourdon, and Les Gorges du Loup. While in Grasse, learn more about the town’s perfume-making heritage with a visit to the International Perfume Museum, or take a guided tour of one of the legendary perfumeries.

Grasse Tours from Nice

Less than an hour from Nice, Grasse is often visited as part of a full-day itinerary, taking in highlights of the French Riviera and Provence. Along the way, stop in Cannes to see the famous Film Festival Palace; visit medieval towns such as Gourdon, Tourrettes-sur-Loup, and Les Gorges du Loup; or enjoy wine tasting at Château de Crémat. For a more personalized experience, opt for a small-group tour or choose a private tour that can be customized to your preferences.

With three days in Cannes, you have enough time to savor the culture and natural beauty of this French Riviera hot spot and environs. Here are some ideas for an itinerary that suits your interests.

Day 1: Get to know Cannes

Glide along La Croisette—the waterfront boulevard lined with restaurants and elegant hotels—on a Segway or Vespa tour that includes attractions such as the Festival Palace (Palais des Festivals), Le Suquet (old town), and Palm Beach. Another option: rent a bike and cycle around town.

Day 2: Take to the sea

Spend your second day on the water and admire Cannes from a different perspective. Make like a movie star and book a private motorboat with your own skipper, stopping to swim in the Mediterranean. Alternatively, take a ferry to Île Sainte-Marguerite, an island just 15 minutes off the coast where you can hike, watch for native birds, and visit the 17th-century prison. You can go even farther by ferry on a day trip to Saint-Tropez, another glamorous resort town—or wait until evening for a dinner cruise or sunset sail.

Day 3: Explore more of the region

Part of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, Cannes benefits from proximity to some of the French Riviera’s most beloved locales—and it’s easy to visit a few on a day trip along the coast or into the hills. Book a tour for hassle-free travel, and sit back and take in views of the Mediterranean coast as you make your way to Monaco, Nice, or Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Grasse is a popular stop for its perfume factory, and Eze is known for its medieval architecture and hilltop setting. Discover the glitz of Monte Carlo on a night tour, or if you’re more interested in natural wonders, head to Verdon Gorge.

A jewel of the Côte d’Azur, glittering St-Tropez is celebrated for its golden beaches, elegant boutiques, and see-and-be-seen crowds. Once frequented by artists, the coastal enclave is these days favored by the international jet set, and it’s not uncommon to see superyachts glide by. If you have just one day to explore, here’s what to do.

Morning: City Explorations

Petite St-Tropez is easily discovered by car or on foot, and morning is the perfect time to get situated in its refined milieu. Set out early to beat the crowds, and keep your eyes peeled for landmarks such as the Citadel of St-Tropez, a historical fortification that houses a maritime history museum; the Church of St-Tropez (Église de St-Tropez), the city’s baroque church; and the Musée de l’Annonciade, home to masterpieces by Monet and Rodin. Alternatively, embark on a panoramic bike tour before the day heats up. Cycle up the hill near the charming village of Gassin for panoramic views overlooking the whole Gulf of St-Tropez—on clear days, you can see as far as Corsica.

Afternoon: Head to the Beach

It isn’t a day in St-Tropez without a few hours soaking up the sun and paddling in the surf. In the afternoon, slather on sunscreen, grab a towel, and pick out the perfect patch of sand on one of the city’s enviable beaches. Join the A-listers and high rollers at the Plage de Pampelonne, St-Tropez’s most popular stretch of shoreline, whose perfectly powdery sands stretch for nearly 3 miles (4.5 kilometers). For a tranquil experience, seek out the tucked-away Cap Taillat. Only accessible on foot, the beach rewards the dedicated with unspoiled natural beauty.

Evening: Elegant Dinner

Once you’ve had time to shower off the sand and change out of your bathing suit, wind down your day with a memorable Riviera meal. You won’t have far to go: Many of the city’s most elegant restaurants and beach clubs line the Plage de Pampelonne. Alternatively, if it’s decadence that you’re after, venture to the ultraluxurious La Vague d’Or, a temple of fine dining with three Michelin stars. On the other end of the culinary spectrum, the cozy and casual Le Café has been a local institution for over 230 years. Wherever you choose to dine, wash down your feast with local wine. 

With two days in Cannes, you’ll have time to enjoy the delights of the resort city as well as highlights of nearby villages and towns. Here are a few ways to create a 48-hour itinerary that suits your interests in one of the French Riviera’s most popular destinations.

Day 1: Get Acquainted With Cannes

**Morning:**Head out on the water with your own skipper on a private motorboat cruise that takes you along the coastline, so you can admire the scenery and go swimming in the Mediterranean Sea. Or, opt for a ferry ride to Île Sainte-Marguerite, an island just 15 minutes from town where you can hike and visit a 17th-century prison.

**Afternoon:**See the sights of Cannes on a Vespa or Segway tour, which allows you to be outside to take in the views and enjoy the sea breeze but still cover more ground than you would on a walking tour. Typical tour attractions include La Croisette, Festival Palace (Palais des Festivals), and Old Town (Le Suquet).

**Night:**Return to the water on an evening catamaran cruise for dinner, drinks, sunset viewing, or a fireworks show, depending on the options available. Cruises are a great way to meet other travelers and see the city from a different perspective; some include drinks or provide them for purchase.

Day 2: Explore More of the Cote d’Azur

**Morning:**Cannes is just one of many jewels in the French Riviera’s crown, so don’t miss the chance to visit other locations, either along the coast or inland in the hills. Tours departing from Cannes often include transportation to places such as Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Grasse, Eze, Monaco, or Saint-Tropez.

**Afternoon:**If you stay in Cannes for the day, go exploring by bike—a relaxing way to enjoy the seaside atmosphere and see the elegant architecture along La Croisette. Take a tour if you prefer the insider perspective of a guide, or rent a bike to ride around independently.

**Night:**Head up the coast to the small country of Monaco on a night tour that gives you the chance to experience a bit of the glamour of Monte Carlo. You can enjoy attractions such as the Casino of Monte-Carlo without having to worry about driving in the dark or after a few drinks.

Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the hills of Provence, the resort city of Cannes is known for its celebrity-packed film festival, but offers plenty to do all year with a mix of historical sights, walkable neighborhoods, and postcard-worthy scenery. Here are a few ways to spend 24 hours in this French Riviera hot spot.

Morning: Take a land or sea excursion

Take advantage of the morning air and light (great for photos) by getting out on the water. For a bit of French history, head to Ile Sainte-Marguerite, an island 15 minutes off the coast of Cannes by ferry, where you can hike and visit the 17th-century prison. Or, opt for a VIP-style experience by booking a private motorboat, and spend a few hours savoring views of the coast and swimming in the Mediterranean. Alternatively, go inland on a day trip to villages such as Saint-Paul-de-Vence and Grasse.

Afternoon: Explore the town

Get to know Cannes, and enjoy the sea breeze and waterfront views on a Vespa, Segway, or bike tour (or rent a bike on your own). Check out attractions such as the Palais des Festivals, La Croisette, Le Suquet (old town), the port, and Palm Beach.

Night: Have an evening adventure

Sail away on a catamaran to watch the sunset and admire the city as it lights up for the night. Cruises are a good way to meet other travelers, and some include a glass of wine or Champagne. For something more lively, head to the tiny country of Monaco—just 35 miles (56 kilometers) up the coast—on a night tour that introduces you to the glitz of Monte Carlo, famous for its casino and Formula One Monaco Grand Prix race circuit.

Comprising cosmopolitan cities, hilltop retreats, golden beaches, and fruitful vineyards, the French Riviera is, for many, shorthand for “paradise.” Given the region’s abundance of sightseeing offerings and leisure opportunities, one week offers just the right amount of time to see it all. Here’s how to plan your Côte d’Azur stay.

Days 1 and 2: Nice

The de facto capital of the French Riviera and its largest city, rarefied Nice is the perfect home base for your excursions. Two days in town means you have enough time for culture, sightseeing, and leisure. Drop by the Marc Chagall Museum or the Matisse Museum, stroll the length of the splendid Promenade des Anglais, soak up the ambiance in the city’s old town (Vieux Nice), cruise the Baie des Anges, and indulge in glamorous, terrace dinners.

Day 3: Monaco

While it’s technically its own principality, tiny Monaco is ringed on three sides by France and on one side by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. Travel 30 minutes from Nice to drive the famed Monaco Formula 1 circuit in a supercar and scope out the Prince’s Palace and Monaco Cathedral. In the evening, dress up in your finery and join the high rollers at Monte Carlo Casino.

Day 4: Cannes

It may seem that every destination along the French Riviera is more glamorous than the last, and Cannes is no exception. The world-famous Cannes Film Festival welcomes A-listers and movie stars to the coastal city each May. Follow in their footsteps along the Boulevard de la Croisette, duck into designer boutiques, and finish with a lavish dinner within splashing distance of the beach.

Day 5: St-Tropez

For such a petite retreat, St-Tropez is celebrated far and wide for the beauty of its beaches and its voluptuary lifestyle. One day is just the right amount of time to discover this bijou beauty. Sunbathing is less a pastime and more a competitive sport here; soak up the rays along the  Plage de Pampelonne, and indulge in fresh seafood once the sun sets.

Days 6 and 7: Hills, Vines, and Villas

Explore beyond the French Riviera's major enclaves on your sixth day, venturing inland to destinations such as Grasse, famed for its perfume production; Èze, a medieval beauty; and Saint-Paul-de-Vence, once frequented by artists. Finish with a vineyard visit: The Côtes de Provence region excels in rosé. On your final day, seek out the Riviera’s other coastal splendors, from elegant villas such as the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and the Villa Kerylos to lovely resorts including Antibes and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

With its turquoise sea, golden beaches, elegant resorts, and wealth of history, the French Riviera is one of the most enchanting stretches of the Mediterranean. Three days along the coast offers enough time to visit cosmopolitan cities, tucked-away wineries, hilltop villages, and more. Here’s how to plan the perfect getaway.

Day 1: A Cultural Day in Nice

The largest city on the French Riviera, Nice is the perfect place to begin your adventures. In the morning, acquaint yourself with its main highlights when you embark on a hop-on-hop-off-bus ride; find a seat on the top deck to soak in the sea breezes and copious sunshine. In the afternoon, indulge in a dose of culture, visiting the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the Matisse Museum, or the Marc Chagall Museum. Alternatively, stroll the city’s old town, Vieux Nice, to soak up its ineffable atmosphere. At sunset, enjoy dinner on one of the elegant terraces that overlook the water, and then stroll the crescent-shaped Promenade des Anglais.

Day 2: Discover Glamorous Monaco

Today, embark on a private or small-group tour of Monaco, a glittering highlight of the Côte d’Azur half an hour from Nice. Begin with a sightseeing excursion: The Prince’s Palace, home to generations of Monégasque royalty, is as glamorous as you’d expect, while Monaco Cathedral, where Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly wed, is another top stop. In the afternoon, sun yourself on Monaco’s Larvotto Beach, order fresh seafood and drinks at a beach club, or, if adrenaline is more your style, go for a thrilling ride around the city’s Formula 1 circuit. Wind down the day with a trip to Monaco’s gilded hub: Monte Carlo. Dine at the famed Café de Paris before following in James Bond’s (fictional) footsteps when you discover the Monte Carlo Casino.

Day 3: Multipart Riviera Explorations

Spend your final day taking in regional highlights on a guided, full-day tour of the Côte d’Azur. In the space of just one day, you can visit numerous scenic stops, from Èze (renowned for its medieval architecture) and Grasse (the spiritual homeland of the French perfume industry) to Saint-Paul-de-Vence (famed for its hilltop beauty) and Antibes (a seaside retreat frequented by superyachts). Depending on your interests, other itineraries focus on additional regional highlights, such as cinematic Cannes, ultraluxurious St-Tropez, and the vineyards of the Côtes de Provence wine region. Cap off your Riviera retreat with one last seaside stroll, dinner en plein air, and flutes of bubbly.

Tucked between the southern Alps and Mediterranean Sea in France, Provence is home to medieval villages, fertile vineyards, and sweeping coastline. Here are a few ways to explore Provence from the seaside town of Cannes.

Eze

The picturesque medieval village of Eze is perched high on the cliffs above the Cote d’Azur—with cobbled streets and spectacular views. It’s an area highlight for its old world charm and a far cry from the glitz of Antibes, Monaco, and Monte Carlo. Eze is a journey of a little over an hour from Cannes.

St-Paul-de-Vence

St-Paul-de-Vence, a scenic hilltop village overlooking the French Riviera and the Mediterranean Sea, is where artists including Matisse, Picasso, and Renoir have found inspiration. No visit is complete without a visit to the town’s art museums and galleries. A guided tour of the village might include a stop at Matisse Church and nearby villages, while private tours can be customized to your interests. The drive from Cannes takes about 50 minutes.

Gourdon

Gourdon is a village in the Préalpes d'Azur National Park boasting views over the Gorges du Loup.  Leave the sandy beaches and busy Promenade de la Croisette in Cannes behind and explore this spot an hour’s drive north of the city.

Pont du Loup & Tourrettes-sur-Loup

These two nearby villages are famous for weaving and traditional textiles. To see several villages and seaside towns of Provence and the French Riviera, take a guided tour with pickup in Cannes for expert narration and effortless transportation.

Things to Know

• Provence enjoys long days of bright sunshine in summer; carrying sun protection is advised.

• Many of the region’s old towns and villages sit on high hillsides, some with steep climbs, so bring sturdy walking shoes.

• Visitors with mobility issues may be limited when visiting some of the medieval villages due to stairs and narrow passages.

• Most tours included hotel pickup and dropoff in Cannes.

From its splendid waterfront to its vibrant food scene, from its Riviera weather to its impeccable scenery, Nice is as much a Mediterranean idyll as it is a cultural hub. Explore by boat, indulge in wine tastings, and enjoy a leisurely dose of sightseeing. Here’s how to make the most of your 2-day stay in the Côte d'Azur's capital.

Day 1: Sightseeing and Exploring

**Morning:**Get acquainted with Nice’s charms and enjoy an introductory tour of the city when you book tickets to a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Thread your way through different neighborhoods, admire waterfront views, and discover key landmarks.

**Afternoon:**Trade your double-decker bus for a yacht—and discover a completely different perspective on the Côte d’Azur’s capital—on an afternoon boat tour. Enjoy sea breezes as you trawl the turquoise waters of the Baie des Anges and glide past nearby locales such as Villefranche-sur-Mer and Menton.

**Evening:**The Promenade des Anglais is arguably Nice’s top attraction, and it’s true that a stroll along its languid crescent is a classic Niçois experience. Set out at sunset, enjoy the people watching, and feel like a local as you amble. After you’ve worked up an appetite, venture to one of the elegant restaurants nearby.

Day 2: La Belle Vie

**Morning:**In Nice, the living is easy—and no trip is complete without indulging in its finer things. Begin your second day in the city with a food-themed walking tour: Stroll through busy markets and graze as you go. Alternatively, for a hands-on experience, book a local-led cooking class.

**Afternoon:**Once you’ve sated your appetite, dedicate your afternoon to all things wine-related. Provence is a dream destination for wine lovers; sign up for a grape-centric tour to taste some of the region’s most exquisite varietals.

**Evening:**For a truly luxurious end to your trip, hop across the border into Monaco in the evening—it’s just a quick trip from Nice. Enjoy a dinner to remember when you venture to one of the principality’s high-end restaurants; afterwards, drop into the Casino Monte-Carlo for a roll of the dice.

Nestled on France’s Cote d’Azur between Nice and Menton, the coastal resort town of Monaco attracts jet-setters, Hollywood A-listers, and glamorous visitors alike keen to relax and party in the Mediterranean sunshine. Here are a few ways to experience the best of Monaco—day and night—from Cannes.

Full-Day Tours

Full-day Monaco tours from Cannes whisk you along the coastal Lower Corniche road to top attractions including the Medieval hilltop town of Eze and the high-rolling casinos of Monte Carlo. Along the way, you can browse the chic boutiques’ racks and soak up the sunshine watching luxury yachts and elegant cruise ships in the harbor.

Night Tours

When darkness falls over coastal Monaco, the city comes alive with the glitz and glamour typical of the French Riviera. Evening tours take in sights of interest such as the Formula One Grand Prix circuit and Casino Square illuminated against the night sky, while a world of entertainment in the famous Monte Carlo Grand Casino awaits.

Things to Know

• Monaco lies 34 miles (55 kilometres) northeast of Cannes, along the coastal road.

• Full-day tours from Cannes to Monaco typically include pickup and drop-off at your Cannes hotel, an expert guide, and transportation by air-conditioned vehicle.

• Night tours usually include the same, plus a 3-course dinner with a glass of wine, beer, or a soft drink.

• The Mediterranean sunshine along the French Riviera around the height of summer is remarkably strong—don’t forget the sunscreen and protective layers.

The capital of the Côte d’Azur, Nice is a carnivalesque and hedonistic city, where glittering Mediterranean waters abut stately promenades, and seaside elegance mingles with artistic vibrancy. One day in town is enough time to sightsee, stroll, and dine in style—here’s how to plan the perfect itinerary.

Morning: An Indulgent Tasting Tour

From its mingled French and Italian heritage to its Mediterranean bounty, it’s no surprise that Nice is host to an exceptional food scene. Get your full day of adventuring off to an indulgent start when you embark on a culinary walking tour of the city (and enjoy some sightseeing opportunities as you wander, too). Traipse through Vieux Nice (the city’s scenic old town), visit bustling markets, and sample numerous local dishes, from pissaladière (a delicious onion flatbread) to salade Niçoise.

Afternoon: Streamlined Sightseeing

After a morning exploring Nice’s neighborhoods and markets on foot, kick back and relax when you book a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Settle into a seat on the upper deck to soak up the sun and enjoy panoramic views, and discover many of the city’s top landmarks in the space of a couple hours. Wend your way past the Promenade des Anglais and the Musée Marc Chagall, see the elegant neighborhood of Cimiez, and more. Alternatively, book a Segway excursion or e-bike tour for another fun and efficient way to discover Nice’s attractions.

Evening: Take to the Skies

The French Riviera’s impeccable scenery is famed the world over, and there’s nothing quite like seeing it from the air. If you only have one day in town, make the most of your Nice excursion and cap off your adventures with a helicopter journey. Book an early evening flight time so you can see the sun setting over the Mediterranean, and watch Nice’s neon lights slowly blinking on. Upon landing, head to one of the city’s constellation of Michelin-starred eateries for a meal to remember, or sip a nightcap at one of Nice’s storied hotels, such as Le Negresco.

Provençal cuisine highlights the bounty of France’s Mediterranean coast. Dishes are made with local herbs and seafood, and are often from traditional recipes passed down through the generations. Here are a few of the flavors and activities to seek out.

Must-Try Dishes

The Mediterranean warmth, coastal rainfall, and fertile soils of Provence provide the perfect conditions for fresh produce to flourish. Sun-ripened vegetables, herbs, and home-grown extra-virgin olive oil are the backbone of traditional Provençal cookery.

With the Mediterranean Sea so close, anchovies, clams, langoustine, mussels, shrimps, squid, and tuna feature on ingredient lists all along the coast. Traditional dishes such as bouillabaisse and ratatouille, built on fresh shellfish and vegetables respectively, are often found in restaurants, while niçoise salad is another popular plate, with tuna steak, lettuce, green beans, and tomatoes layered among crisp salad leaves. Seafood also features heavily in brandade, a fish-and-potato stew made with local salt cod. Rouget (a small, red fish popular in Provence) and loup de mer (sea bass typically grilled with fennel) are fine examples of the fresh fish dishes for which the region is famous.

Provence also has its own regional delicacies to rival the humble baguette. Fougasse is the traditional bread—a circular flatbread typically filled with nuts or olives—and travelers can also look out for socca (a peppery bread made of chickpea flour), pissaladière (a local pizza-style flatbread), and pan bagna (a bread roll topped with anchovies, olives and tomatoes).

Must-Do Experiences

• Visit a home in Nice or St. Jeannet to discover new flavors in a cooking class.

• Learn how to pair wine with traditional Provençal cuisine.

• Follow a guide on a food tour of Nice and discover the diverse ingredients of Provence among its delis, markets, and specialty food shops.