CHARMING VILLAGES
The French Riviera is a glamorous coastline of sun-drenched beaches and azure waters, yet its true charm lies inland. Here, medieval hilltop villages perch like eagles’ nests, offering breathtaking views and timeless beauty.
This region is a land of artists and artisans, where history is etched into every cobblestone. From dramatic coastal towns to fragrant perfume capitals, it is a mosaic of captivating sights and stories.
Most Popular Attractions
Hilltop Villages & Artistic Hubs:
Èze: A stunning medieval village perched on a cliff, famous for its exotic garden with panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence: One of the oldest medieval towns on the coast, renowned for its art galleries and as a haven for artists like Chagall.
Gourdon: A dramatic “Eagle’s Nest” village with a beautifully preserved château and spectacular views over the Loup river gorge.
Tourrettes-sur-Loup: Known as the “village of violets,” this fortified village has a charming medieval core and a focus on artisan crafts.
Mougins: A gastronomic and artistic village where Picasso spent his last years, known for its winding streets and excellent restaurants.
Biot: A village famous for its hand-blown glass factories, with a historic center filled with pottery workshops and art galleries.
Vence: A historic town with a lovely old quarter, home to the famous Matisse Chapel (Chapelle du Rosaire), designed by the artist himself.
Valbonne: A unique village laid out on a grid plan, with a beautiful central square lined with cafés and shops.
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin: A medieval village with a castle keep and narrow, winding streets that lead to amazing views of Monaco and Menton.
Sainte-Agnès: The highest coastal village in Europe, offering stunning views and a medieval castle ruin.
Coastal Towns & Historic Sites:
Villefranche-sur-Mer: A picturesque coastal town with a stunning bay, a charming old town, and the historic Chapelle Saint-Pierre decorated by Jean Cocteau.
Menton: Known as the “Pearl of France,” famous for its colorful old town, beautiful gardens, and annual Lemon Festival.
La Turbie: Overlooking Monaco, this village is home to the Trophée des Alpes, a majestic Roman monument dedicated to Emperor Augustus.
Cap Ferrat: A peninsula famous for its luxurious villas and coastal path, home to the magnificent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild with its themed gardens.
Antibes: A larger town with a famous old town, a fortified sea wall, and the Musée Picasso, housed in the Château Grimaldi.
Cagnes-sur-Mer: Divided into a seaside part and the medieval hilltop village of Haut-de-Cagnes, home to the Renoir Museum.
Èze-sur-Mer: The coastal part of Èze, with beautiful beaches and a scenic coastal path connecting it to the hilltop village.
Artisan & Perfume Villages:
Grasse: The world capital of perfume, with historic factories and the Musée International de la Parfumerie, dedicated to the art of scent.
Vallauris: A town with a deep-rooted pottery tradition, home to the Musée National Picasso, featuring his large-scale ceramic and bronze works.
Grasse Perfume Factories: Take a guided tour of a historic perfume house like Fragonard, Molinard, or Galimard to learn about the process and create your own scent.
Biot Glass Blowers: Witness the art of glassblowing at one of Biot’s famous glass factories.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Coastal Path (Sentier du Littoral): Walk along the breathtaking trail that hugs the coastline, offering stunning views of secluded coves and the Mediterranean Sea. The path from Cap-Ferrat to Èze-sur-Mer is particularly scenic.
Explore the Exotic Garden of Èze: Perched on the ruins of a medieval fortress, this famous garden offers panoramic views from 400 meters high. It’s home to a unique collection of succulents and cacti.
Visit the Perfumeries of Grasse: Known as the world’s perfume capital, Grasse offers tours of historic perfumeries like Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard, where you can learn about the art of fragrance creation.
Discover the Art of St-Paul-de-Vence: Wander the cobbled streets of this fortified medieval village, which has attracted artists for centuries. Visit the Fondation Maeght for an impressive collection of modern art.
Take a Ceramic Workshop in Vallauris: Follow in the footsteps of Picasso and try your hand at pottery in Vallauris, a town famous for its ceramics. Many local studios offer workshops for all skill levels.
Go on a Wine Tasting Tour: Explore the vineyards of the Bellet appellation, located in the hills above Nice, or the Château de Crémat, a beautiful castle with a rich history.
Enjoy a Pastis at a Local Café: Sit back, relax, and savor a glass of pastis—a traditional anise-flavored aperitif—at a sun-drenched café in one of the many picturesque squares.
Hike the Gorges du Verdon: If you’re willing to venture a bit further inland, the “Grand Canyon of Europe” offers spectacular hiking trails, kayaking on the turquoise river, and stunning views.
Explore the Markets: Immerse yourself in local life by visiting the vibrant markets. The Cours Saleya market in Nice is famous, but don’t miss the smaller, more authentic markets in villages like Vence or Valbonne.
Go on a Boat Trip to the Lerins Islands: Take a short ferry ride from Cannes to these peaceful islands. Visit the ancient monastery on Île Saint-Honorat or explore the natural beauty of Île Sainte-Marguerite.
Learn to Paint in the Style of the Masters: The region’s unique light and colors have inspired countless artists. Many villages offer art classes or workshops where you can try to capture the landscapes on canvas.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Recommended: The most effective way to explore the charming villages is with a rental car. This gives you the flexibility to navigate the winding coastal and mountain roads and discover the hidden gems at your own pace. Many villages are difficult to access by public transport.
Buses: The regional bus network, Lignes d’Azur, connects many of the main towns and some of the villages. This is an affordable option, but routes can be slow and less frequent, especially on weekends and in the off-season.
Trains: The TER train service runs along the coast, connecting towns like Nice, Antibes, Cannes, and Monaco. This is a great way to travel between these main hubs, as it’s often faster than driving and avoids traffic.
Taxis & Rideshares: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are available in the larger towns but can be expensive, particularly for journeys between villages. It’s often more cost-effective to rent a car for a few days if you plan on exploring.
Embrace the Village Pace: The villages operate at a slower, more relaxed pace than the bustling coastal cities. Many small shops and businesses may close for lunch, and Sundays are generally quiet.
Dining Times: Lunch is typically eaten between 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., and dinner is often served starting around 7:30 p.m., although many restaurants stay open late.
The French Language: While many people in the tourism industry speak English, locals will appreciate it if you try to use a few basic French phrases like Bonjour (hello), Merci (thank you), and Excusez-moi (excuse me).
Dress Code: While the Riviera has a glamorous reputation, the villages themselves are less formal. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating the steep, cobblestone streets.
Hidden Gems:
Tourrette-sur-Loup: This medieval village is famous for its violet cultivation. Walk through the fragrant fields and visit the artisan shops.
The Chapel of the Rosary (Vence): Known as the “Matisse Chapel,” this masterpiece was designed and decorated by Henri Matisse himself and is considered one of the artist’s finest works.
Gourdon: Often called the “Nid d’Aigle” (Eagle’s Nest), this village offers spectacular views of the Loup Valley and has a beautiful castle with Renaissance gardens.
Navigating the Old Town: The narrow, winding streets in the historic centers of these villages are a joy to explore. However, they can be steep and uneven. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to get lost—that’s part of the fun!
Food and Drink: Don’t miss local specialties like socca (a chickpea flatbread), pissaladière (an onion tart), and fresh seafood. Ask for a glass of local rosé wine, which is a staple of the region.
Top Restaurants
Bistrot Gourmand Clovis [$30-$50] – A delightful bistro in Tourrettes-sur-Loup known for its cozy atmosphere and expertly crafted French cuisine using fresh, local ingredients.
Café du Midi [$15-$25] – A charming and simple cafe in Tourrettes-sur-Loup that is a local favorite, known for its excellent Croque Madame and friendly service.
L’Amandier de Mougins [$40-$70] – A legendary Provencal restaurant in Mougins, established by a famous chef in the 1970s and still known for its classic cuisine and beautiful terrace with panoramic views.
Le Mas de Mougins [$40-$70] – A classic Provencal restaurant in Mougins with a beautiful garden setting, offering a traditional menu that celebrates local flavors.
La Vigne du Roy [$30-$50] – A popular spot in the village of Mougins, serving traditional French dishes with a focus on seasonal and local products.
La Gaudinade [$30-$50] – Located in the heart of old Mougins, this restaurant focuses on traditional Provençal flavors and products.
Château Le Cagnard [$50-$80] – A restaurant in the beautiful village of Cagnes-sur-Mer, offering a menu of refined, traditional French cuisine.
La Table du Château [$40-$60] – A charming restaurant in the village of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin with a terrace that offers stunning views and a menu of Mediterranean and French dishes.
Le Saint-Paul [$50-$80] – A romantic restaurant in a historic hotel in the heart of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, known for its refined traditional French cuisine and beautiful setting.
Auberge du Vieux Cèdre [$40-$60] – A family-run restaurant in the village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup that offers a rustic, authentic dining experience with a focus on grilled meats and local specialties.
Le Moulin de Mougins [$70-$120] – Housed in a historic old mill, this restaurant in Mougins is an exceptional gastronomic destination, blending tradition with modern artistry.
D’ici et D’ailleurs [$40-$60] – A well-regarded restaurant in the village of Eze, offering a creative menu that blends Mediterranean and international flavors.
La Brouette du Pèlerin [$40-$60] – A modern and creative bistro in the heart of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, offering a fresh take on traditional French cuisine.
L’Atelier des Saveurs by Stéphane Garcia [$60-$90] – Located near the village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup, this restaurant is known for its sophisticated and creative Provençal cuisine.
Château Eza [$100-$180] – A Michelin-recommended restaurant in the village of Eze, offering an exceptional fine dining experience with stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Château de la Chèvre d’Or [$150-$250] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Eze, this is a world-renowned destination for its creative and refined cuisine and breathtaking setting.
Alain Llorca [$100-$150] – Located just outside Saint-Paul-de-Vence, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a stunning view and a menu of sophisticated, contemporary French cuisine.
Paloma [$150-$250] – A two-Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant in Mougins, known for its refined and elegant cuisine that honors the flavors of the region.
Le Mas Candille [$80-$120] – A Michelin-starred restaurant located in a luxurious hotel in Mougins, offering a gourmet menu with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Hostellerie Jérôme [$120-$180] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in the village of La Turbie, known for its exceptional cuisine and beautiful setting.
Le Ficus [$20-$35] – A small, charming restaurant with a terrace in the village of Eze, known for its simple but delicious Mediterranean food and a relaxed atmosphere.
La Petite Maison de Nicole [$70-$120] – A famous restaurant in a beautiful setting in the village of Mougins, known for its traditional Provencal cuisine and a celebrity clientele.
Le Bar du Château [$20-$40] – A simple and authentic bar in the center of Eze, offering a casual spot for a drink or a quick snack.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Bar L’Amiral: Found on the harbor in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this classic bar offers a serene spot to enjoy a drink while watching the boats, with a view of the lighthouse and the surrounding hills.
The Sénéquier Bar: An iconic spot on the port of Saint-Tropez, this bar is known for its legendary red awning and for being a prime location for people-watching. It’s a quintessential Riviera experience.
Le Bar de la Pinède: Nestled in the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Cap d’Antibes, this sophisticated bar offers a magnificent view of the sea and the hotel’s lush gardens, serving exquisite cocktails in a glamorous setting.
Bar La Plage de Passable: Located on the beach in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this bar offers a casual, yet chic, atmosphere right on the water, perfect for a sunset spritz or a long afternoon.
Bar Amiral: Situated on the water’s edge in Villefranche-sur-Mer, this bar offers a relaxing ambiance and spectacular views of the bay, making it an ideal place for a pre-dinner drink.
Le Bar du Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat: An elegant bar at the prestigious Four Seasons hotel, this spot in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat provides a luxurious experience with creative cocktails and a breathtaking view.
Hôtel La Ponche: A historic hotel bar in the old town of Saint-Tropez, known for its timeless charm and a bohemian-chic ambiance, perfect for a classic cocktail.
Bar du Mas de l’Esterel: Located within a charming hotel in the Esterel hills near Saint-Raphaël, this bar offers a tranquil setting with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Le Bar du Byblos: An iconic bar within the legendary Byblos hotel in Saint-Tropez, known for its glamorous clientele, festive atmosphere, and exclusive cocktail creations.
La Tarte Tropézienne: While primarily a bakery famous for its namesake dessert, this place in Saint-Tropez also has a café and bar section where you can enjoy a drink in a lively, central location.
The Bar at the Château Saint-Martin & Spa: Situated on a hilltop in Vence, this bar offers a stunning panoramic view of the French Riviera and the Mediterranean Sea, a perfect spot for an elegant drink.
Hôtel Belles Rives: Located in Juan-les-Pins, this bar is a legendary spot that was once the home of F. Scott Fitzgerald. It offers a nostalgic, art-deco ambiance and a magnificent terrace right on the water.
Eden-Roc Restaurant Bar: A chic bar in the iconic Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, offering a sophisticated and tranquil setting with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Bar du Port: A lively, classic bar on the port of Cassis, perfect for a drink and a bite while taking in the vibrant harbor scene.
Les Caves du Roy: Located in the basement of the Byblos Hotel in Saint-Tropez, this is one of the most famous nightclubs on the French Riviera, renowned for its extravagant parties, celebrity clientele, and vibrant atmosphere.
L’Opera: A stylish restaurant and club on the port of Saint-Tropez, known for its theatrical shows, lively dinner parties, and stunning view of the harbor.
Le Quai: A vibrant restaurant, art gallery, and club on the port of Saint-Tropez, offering live music and a festive atmosphere with a view of the yachts.
Papagayo: A long-standing institution on the port of Saint-Tropez, this club is known for its energetic parties and international DJ sets, a true nightlife hotspot.
VIP Room Saint-Tropez: A famous and exclusive club located just off the port of Saint-Tropez, known for attracting a high-end, international crowd and for its late-night parties.
Key West: Located on the port of Saint-Tropez, this club is known for its fun and relaxed atmosphere, offering a lively spot to dance the night away with a view of the yachts.
L’Indie Club: A popular spot in Ramatuelle, near Saint-Tropez, known for its unique, bohemian vibe and a great mix of music, attracting a younger crowd.
Le Bar du Girelier: A lively bar on the port of Saint-Tropez that often turns into a dancing spot later in the evening, with a relaxed, party atmosphere.
Amnesia: A popular open-air club in Saint-Tropez, known for its energetic music and large dance floor, a go-to spot for a lively night out.
Nikki Beach Saint-Tropez: A renowned beach club in Ramatuelle that transforms into a high-energy party spot in the afternoon, known for its champagne showers and festive atmosphere.
Bagatelle Beach Saint-Tropez: A luxurious beach club in Saint-Tropez that also hosts lively parties with DJs and live music, a perfect mix of dining and dancing.