Amazing Things To Do in The French Riviera

The French Riviera is one of the classiest, elegant, and beautiful destinations to travel to in all of Europe.  Walking the streets of Monaco, it’ll be fun to pretend you are a billionaire who just had to find a place to park your yacht.  A visit here will definitely be a highlight of your time in Europe.  So without further ado, check out my 10 amazing things to do in The French Riviera.

1.  Explore Nice

Nice is the best place to call your “homebase” during your stay in the French Riviera.  It’s one of the biggest cities in the area, and has a ton to offer.  As well, it’s perfectly located in the middle of Monaco and Cannes for perfect day-trips.  As well, I would say that Nice has the best nightlife in the French Riviera, as well as the most affordable.  There’s a lively bar scene, and some really fun clubs.  For a fancy club experience, check out HIGH club which is just a 15 minute walk from Old Town along the beach.

2.  Promenade des Anglais

Nice has one of the nicest stretches of water and a great stroll along the Promenade.  There’s a ton of great restaurants and cafes along the Promenade, and the beach is a great place to spend a day.  It’s not a “sandy” beach whatsoever, but it’s still a great spot to kick it.  A trip to the French Riviera would not be complete without strolling along the Promenade des Anglais.

3.  S-E-A-F-O-O-D

The French Riviera is known for having some of the best seafood in Europe.  There’s tons of restaurants to choose from.  If you enjoy seafood, then definitely take advantage of being in this area, and indulge in a great meal.  This area is pretty expensive, so you might want to shop around and look for a restaurant that fits your budget.  Definitely try some oysters, mussels, and fresh fish.

4.  Wayne’s Bar & King’s Pub (Old Town Bars)

In downtown Nice there is an area called Old Town, and it has a really vibrant bar scene.  There’s tons of small bars and clubs to choose from, places that stay open late to eat, and a few large squares to hang out as well.  Wayne’s Bar & King’s Pub are two of the best, and they are conveniently located on the same street.  Head to one of these, then bounce over to the other.  There’s live music and a great atmosphere, and is definitely one of my favorite things to do in Nice.  Don’t miss out on these two bars.  *One other bar just a short 5 minute walk away is called THOR, and is also worth seeing.

5.  Explore Monaco

Yachts.  Expensive Cars.  World Famous Casinos.  Monaco is is the second smallest country in the world, and definitely the fanciest place I have ever visited.  This is just a short 20-minute train ride from Nice, and only cost around 8-9 euros round-trip.  Make sure you head up to the hill to check out both sides of Monaco.  Take a look at all the massive yachts.  Food and drink prices can get expensive here, so I always recommend going to the grocery store near the train station, and getting drinks and snacks and put them in my backpack.

6.  Gamble at the Monte Carlo

What would a trip to Monaco be without doing some gambling at the Monte Carlo?  There can sometimes be a strict dress code, so it’s best to wear a nicer outfit when going inside.  As well, sometimes the require you to bring your passport, but I have gotten in once or twice without it.  One last note is sometimes they do ask for an entrance fee.  For those who might not be as well dressed, forgot their passport, or don’t want to pay; there is a a free casino called Cafe Paris in the same plaza.  This entire area is also amazing to explore, with amazing streets, ritzy shopping, and beautiful gardens.

7.  Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

This is an amazing combination of an aquarium and a museum that is definitely worth a visit while in Monaco.  It’s beautifully located right against the sea, and is a stunning building.  There’s tons to see, amazing fish, and you can learn a lot.  If you want to see a lot of fish that will remind you of “Finding Nemo”, definitely stop here.  Also, if you have a student ID- bring it.  It will save you about 50% off here.

8.  Cannes Beach Day

Going to the place of the famous Cannes Film Festival is a must during your time in the French Riviera.  There’s a great sandy beach that’s perfect for swimming, tanning, and relaxing.  Bring some booze, music, and you’re ready for a nice day.  I’d also walk along the entire promenade in Cannes as well.  There’s tons of amazing hotels, beautiful people, casinos, and beachside restaurants.

9.  St. Tropez

Now, I only really recommend checking this place during the touristy season, because it’s not really worth it to go during the colder months.  The famous hotspot for celebrity spotting, bottles of champagne, and luxury living.  It can get rather expensive to get to, but it’s definitely one of the highlights of the French Riviera.  Nice – St. Tropez directions can be found here.

10.  Villefranche-Sur-Mer // Antibes

If you stay in Nice, you’ll be taking the trains to both Cannes and Monaco.  I always recommend getting off at one stop along the way, and checking out other cities.  Both of these are smaller and less touristy, but amazing to spend a few hours at.  Antibes has some incredibly massive yachts and some great restaraunts for lunch.  Villefranche-sur-mer has an incredible beach and nice areas to explore.  Definitely make the most of your time in the French Riviera, and see as much as possible.