Hello, fellow travellers! 🌞

If you’re planning a trip to the French Riviera, you’ve probably already imagined yourself lounging on golden beaches, sipping rosé, and indulging in the finest French cuisine. But let me tell you, while the Riviera itself is a slice of paradise, there’s a whole world of incredible day trips just waiting to be explored beyond its sparkling coastlines.

From charming hilltop villages to lavender-scented fields, and from family-friendly adventures to group excursions, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into my top 5 amazing day trips from the French Riviera that will add an extra layer of magic to your holiday.

1. Eze Village: The Eagle’s Nest of the Riviera

Perfect for: Couples, History Lovers, Families with Older Kids

Let’s start with one of my absolute favorite spots: Eze Village. Perched on a rocky hilltop about 20 minutes from Nice, this medieval village feels like you’ve stepped back in time. I like to call it the “Eagle’s Nest” because it offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Mediterranean below.

  • What to Do:
  • Explore the cobblestone streets: The charm of Eze lies in its winding streets and stone buildings. You’ll find plenty of small art galleries, boutique shops, and tiny cafĂ©s tucked into the nooks of this historic village.
  • Visit the Jardin Exotique: This exotic garden is perched at the very top of Eze and offers sweeping views of the Riviera coastline. The garden itself is full of cacti, succulents, and sculptures.
  • Tour the Fragonard Perfume Factory: For those interested in a sensory experience, take a free guided tour of the Fragonard Perfumerie in Eze and learn how their iconic perfumes are made.
  • Food Stop:
    If you’re feeling indulgent (and why wouldn’t you be?), have lunch at the world-famous Château de la Chèvre d’Or. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers fine dining with a view. It’s pricey, but trust me, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
  • Average Price: €80-120 per person for lunch.
  • Travel Tip:
    Families with older kids will love the views and hiking options around Eze. There’s also the Nietzsche Path, a scenic hike down from Eze Village to the coast. It takes about 1.5 hours, so bring water and sunscreen!

2. Monaco: Glitz, Glamour, and Ocean Views

Perfect for: Families, Couples, Groups of Friends, Luxury Lovers

Monaco may be tiny, but it’s packed with luxury, excitement, and stunning vistas. Less than 30 minutes from Nice, Monaco is the perfect day trip for those who want to live like royalty for a day.

  • What to Do:
  • Explore Monte Carlo: Start your day with a visit to the Casino de Monte-Carlo. Even if you don’t gamble, the architecture is breathtaking, and there’s something exciting about strolling the streets where Bond films were shot.
  • Prince’s Palace of Monaco: Head up to the Palais Princier and explore the lavish apartments of Monaco’s ruling family. Be sure to catch the Changing of the Guard at 11:55 AM every day.
  • Oceanographic Museum: Perfect for families, this aquarium and museum dedicated to marine life is housed in an extraordinary building that almost hangs over the sea. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, and the rooftop cafĂ© offers incredible views.
  • Stroll the Port Hercule: Take a leisurely walk around Port Hercule and check out the massive yachts. There are plenty of waterside restaurants and ice cream stands for a quick bite or dessert.
  • Food Stop:
    For lunch, head to Café de Paris Monte-Carlo, right next to the Casino. It’s great for people-watching, and the French brasserie-style menu has something for everyone.
  • Average Price: €60-90 per person.
  • Travel Tip:
    If you’re traveling with kids, the Monaco Zoological Gardens is a lovely small zoo that offers a fun way to spend an hour or two.

3. Grasse: The Perfume Capital of the World

Perfect for: Families, Couples, Groups of Friends, Artisans

Grasse is a charming hilltop town about 45 minutes inland from Cannes, and it’s the global capital of perfume. If you have an interest in fragrance or just want to experience something a little different, this town is perfect for a day trip.

  • What to Do:
  • Visit the Perfumeries: Grasse is home to three major perfume houses – Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard. You can tour their factories and even create your own perfume! It’s a hands-on experience and great for groups or families looking for something interactive.
  • Explore the Old Town: Wander the narrow medieval streets of Grasse’s old town, where you’ll find charming cafĂ©s, boutiques, and incredible views over the surrounding countryside.
  • International Perfume Museum: For the ultimate perfume education, visit the MusĂ©e International de la Parfumerie and learn about the history and art of fragrance.
  • Food Stop:
    Dine at La Bastide Saint Antoine, a beautiful Michelin-starred restaurant set in a grand Provençal estate.
  • Average Price: €100-150 per person.
  • Travel Tip:
    This is a great trip for families with older children who can appreciate the tours and perfume-making workshops. Kids under 10 might find some of the more detailed tours less exciting, but the Old Town is fun for all ages.

4. Antibes: A Mix of History, Art, and Seaside Charm

Perfect for: Families, Art Lovers, Groups of Friends

Antibes is just a quick 20-minute drive from Cannes, but it feels worlds away with its charming old town, ramparts, and beautiful beaches. This is a day trip you won’t want to miss, especially if you’re an art lover or traveling with family.

  • What to Do:
  • Picasso Museum: Located in the historic Château Grimaldi, the Picasso Museum is a must for art lovers. Picasso worked here for a few months, and the museum now houses an impressive collection of his works.
  • Stroll the Old Town: Antibes’ old town is a delight to explore, with its narrow streets, lively market, and cozy cafĂ©s. The MarchĂ© Provençal is a bustling food market that operates daily, selling fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies.
  • Walk the Ramparts: Take a scenic walk along the ancient ramparts overlooking the sea. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll with the family or a romantic sunset walk with your significant other.
  • Relax on Plage de la Salis: If you’re after some beach time, Plage de la Salis is a beautiful and family-friendly sandy beach just a short walk from the old town. Bring a picnic or grab lunch at one of the beachside cafĂ©s.
  • Food Stop:
    For lunch or dinner, try Le Figuier de Saint Esprit, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves Provençal dishes with a modern twist. The foie gras and sea bass are highly recommended.
  • Average Price: €80-120 per person.
  • Travel Tip:
    If you’re traveling with kids, make sure to stop by the Marineland complex, home to aquariums, shows, and animal experiences. It’s just outside Antibes and a big hit with families.

5. Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Artists’ Paradise

Perfect for: Couples, Art Lovers, History Buffs

One of the oldest medieval towns on the French Riviera, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is perched on a hilltop about 30 minutes from Nice and is renowned for its art galleries and stunning scenery.

  • What to Do:
  • Explore the Art Galleries: Saint-Paul-de-Vence has long been a hub for artists, and its narrow streets are lined with galleries featuring local and international artists. You could easily spend hours wandering through the tiny galleries and shops.
  • Visit the Fondation Maeght: This incredible modern art museum features works by MirĂł, Chagall, and Giacometti. The sculpture garden is a particular highlight, with incredible views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Walk the Town Walls: The ancient fortified walls of the village offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coast. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic stroll or a peaceful moment to take in the beauty of Provence.
  • Food Stop:
    Dine at the legendary La Colombe d’Or, a restaurant that has been an artists’ haunt since the 1920s. The walls are adorned with original works by Picasso, Matisse, and Chagall, who often dined here. The food is exquisite Provençal fare, and the setting is simply magical.
  • Average Price: €90-130 per person.
  • Travel Tip:
    This is a perfect day trip