Top 10 Things to do in the French Riviera for an Unforgettable Holiday!

Maison Godet Perfumery, Saint Paul de Vence

Bienvenue sur la Côte d'Azur !(Welcome to Cote d' Azur!)

Planning a holiday to the South of France? Get ready to be captivated by the sun-kissed beauty of the French Riviera! As we step into 2024, this glamorous coastal haven continues to enchant travelers worldwide with its azure waters, charming villages, cultural richness, and bespoke experiences. If you want to have an exquisite dining experience while in French Riviera, check out my top restaurants in French Riviera based on my experience.

Here's your guide to the top 10 things to do in the French Riviera in 2024, from the perspective of someone who has lived here for almost 5 years now:

1. Promenade des Anglais - Stroll Along the Cote D'Azur's Famous Walkway:

Promenade des Anglais view from Castle Hill

There is something magical about the Promenade des Anglais. As your flight starts to descend to the Nice airport, you can already see this palm tree-lined promenade kissed gently by the Azur blue waters! Very first on your itinerary, begin your Riviera adventure with a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Breathe in the fresh Mediterranean air, soak up the sun, and take in the stunning views of the azure blue waters. Spot the iconic blue chairs, striped umbrellas lining the coast and even treasure hunt for the miniature Statue of Liberty. Relax at one of the many restaurants on the beach(or as the French call it: restaurant à la plage).

For the best panoramic view of this beautiful coastline, head to Castle Hill at the end of the Promenade(easily accessible by climbing stairs or by an elevator). Please note, from my previous visits. I have noticed that the elevator was always out of order, so if you have limitations climbing stairs, it may be not accessible for you. Definitely, a top 10 thing to do in the French Riviera!

2. Grasse - The perfume capital of the world:

Perfume Museum, Grasse

Who doesn't love perfume? Discover the art of perfumery at the heart of the perfume capital of the world, Grasse. The magical land that hosts the flower gardens of haute couture perfumeries such as Dior & Chanel, wander along the streets of Grasse and explore many local perfumeries and join a tour or even learn how to create perfume! I highly recommend, the perfume workshops offered by Fragonard Perfumery (available in English at 2 locations: Grasse & Eze) as a top thing to do in the French Riviera!

Interested in a perfume workshop in Grasse? Book this tour with Molinard perfumes easily: https://gyg.me/hvB4uo2M

3. Old Towns Exploration - Saint Paul de Vence, Eze:

Streets of Saint Paul de Vence

Want to experience the authentic charm of French Riviera villages? Wander through cobbled streets, discover local art, and immerse yourself in the historical allure of these picturesque villages. I particularly love Eze & Saint Paul de Vence for their artsy charm and rustic floral vibes. Perfect for Instagram photos; something that I love!

Did you know that major celebrities from around the world such as Johny Depp have owned properties in the lovely village of Saint Paul de Vence?

One of the local must-visits that I recommend is perfumery Maison Godet, a charming belle epoque style perfumery that showcases Sonia Godet's creations! Hint: You do not want to walk away having not bought a perfume from here! They do ship worldwide, in case you fall in love with a perfume and walk away without owning that fragrance. It happened to me, hence the word of advice! Thanks internet for online shopping! Visit to these villages definitely fall under the top 10 things to do in the French Riviera!

If traveling as a family, I recommend a day trip covering Eze, Monaco and Montecarlo for easy transport : https://gyg.me/mneYCQGt

4. Monaco - The Glamorous Microstate:

Sports Cars are plenty in Monaco

If you are in the French Riviera, you cannot miss visiting Monaco! I recommend a day trip to Monaco as a top thing to do in the French Riviera! Indulge in luxury at the glamorous city-state of Monaco, visit the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo, explore the Prince's Palace and observe the change of guards, marvel at the ocean life at Oceanographic museum(especially great if you are traveling with the children, they would love it) and experience fine dining in this opulent destination.

When you crave food, head to Larvotto for the lively beachside dining experience. I recommend Giacomo, an exquisite Italian restaurant for authentic Italian cuisine(Did you know that Monaco has a good population of Italians?)

Monaco has a hilly landscape, so I recommend the famous Hop on hop off bus tour, especially if you visit during the summer months to have a comfortable tour of the city. Check out the tour here: https://gyg.me/1MjGYmIx

5. Lavender Fields in Provence - A Fragrant Retreat:

Lavender fields in Valensole

If you are lucky to be in the South of France in June-July, take a 2 day trip to the enchanting lavender fields of Provence. In full bloom during the summer, these fields offer a sensory delight with their vibrant colors and fragrant aroma. The harvesting can be anytime between the first and second week of July, so plan your holiday accordingly if you would love to visit these fragrant fields. Definitely a top thing to do in the French Riviera in July!

There are many villages in Provence for a night's stay or charming daytime explorations. We love Gordes, Lourmarin, and Goult!

For a fantastic nature trip covering gorges du Verdon and lavender fields, here's a useful tour to check: https://gyg.me/TlgYo79N

6. Saint-Tropez - Sun, Sea, and Style:

Saint Tropez

Visiting Saint-Tropez is definitely a top thing to do in the French Riviera! When in Saint-Tropez, relax on the golden sands of Pampelonne Beach and sip on some Aperol Spritz! Enjoy the Mediterranean sun, savor fresh seafood at beachside restaurants, and witness the epitome of French Riviera style. There are plenty of shops to satisfy the shopper in you, from high-end luxury to local boutiques!

I'm not a big fan of crowded spots and prefer to go visit Saint-Tropez during shoulder seasons in Spring & Autumn. One thing you need to know about Cote D' Azur weather is that you can have a beautiful sunny & hot day in Spring as well as Autumn, so you still get to experience the beach holiday almost all-year-round!

7. Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild - Gardens of Elegance:

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

Step into a world of refined beauty at the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Explore the stunning, themed, and meticulously designed gardens, offering a tranquil escape. From exotic cacti to a variety of roses, these gardens are a visual treat for nature lovers! The villa is open to visit against a ticket purchase and can be booked for private events as well. Buy a combined ticket to visit Villa Kerylos too and recommend these villas as top things to do in the French Riviera!

There are special summer evening events that you can take advantage of; tickets and more info will be available on the official website linked below: https://www.villa-ephrussi.com/en

8. Arts and Culture immersion - Matisse and Chagall Museums (Nice), Picasso Museum(Antibes):

Picasso Museum, Antibes

Immerse yourself in the artistic heritage of Nice by visiting the Musee Matisse and Musee Marc Chagall. Admire masterpieces by these renowned artists, set against the backdrop of the French Riviera. Or head to the Picasso Museum in Antibes, hosting some of his rare works! If you do head to Antibes and are in the mood for a gelato, I highly recommend Gelateria Del Porto for yummy artisanal creations that exude artistic creativity! The flower shaped gelatos will complete the top things to do in the French Riviera list!

Did you know that France has free museum entries for everyone on the first Sunday of every month? Most museums have this offer, so grab this opportunity to visit some for free during your holiday in France!

9. Wine Tasting - Vineyard Bliss:

Wine Tasting Vibes

Sip on the finest wines in the charming village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence or near by villages. Take a guided wine tour to explore the local vineyards, learn about the wine making and what makes the French wine unique. Partake in wine tasting and indulge in the exquisite flavors of the region, a best activity to do in the French Riviera! If you are in the South during mid to end of August, you are in for a treat; you can visit the vineyards where the grapes are just ripe for the picking.

The vendage or grape harvest usually takes place at the end of August or the beginning of September; an event that attracts plenty of seasonal workers to the region. During your visit, do not forget to purchase unique wines from the local chateau; they make excellent gifts to your loved ones back home!

Here is a top rated tour that covers 3 villages in the French Riviera and a beautiful wine tasting experience: https://gyg.me/aHI7n31W

10. Scenic Coastal Walks in Saint-jean-cap-ferrat or Ville-Franche-Sur-Mer:

Beautiful Ville-franche-sur-mer

Embark on a scenic coastal walk around Saint-Jean-cap-ferrat, a premium residential coastline lined with glamorous villas. This picturesque trail offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, hidden coves, and some hiking opportunities; perfect top thing to do in the French Riviera if you are outdoorsy!

Not so far from Saint-jean-Cap-Ferrat lies the most charming village of the South, Ville-franche-sur-mer - a fishing village. The picturesque, laid back charm of this place is remarkable, and I highly recommend you to explore the cobbled streets and end the day by the beach for beautiful sunset. Plenty of restaurants line the portside which can get really busy in summer, but a short walk away from the buzzling coast past the port and towards Plage de la Darse, you will find quieter restaurants. La Corderie, is one of them; I like this restaurant for it's rustic charm, although the menu may not be varied for most people's preference.

There you have it – the top 10 things to do in the French Riviera in 2024. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, beachside relaxation, or a taste of luxury, the French Riviera promises an unforgettable Mediterranean escape. Pack your bags, and let the allure of the Côte d'Azur unfold before you this summer!