The French Riviera is the perfect holiday location for people from all walks of life. It’s a destination that has everything to offer. Sun, sea, history, culture, food, shopping, entertainment, architecture, countryside, luxury experiences and budget-friendly options. So when your yacht inevitably sails into port, and you find yourself with a few hours, a day, or even multiple days off, what will you do? With so many choices all within a short train ride distance away, it may feel a little overwhelming to decide exactly how to spend your precious free time.
Luckily, FunAir is here to help. We’ve narrowed down some of the best things to do on the Cote d’Azur in the ultimate yachtie guide conveniently categorised based on your personality and/or mood. So, whether you feel like spending all your hard-earned cash in designer stores, partying into the early hours, or hiking one of the local peaks, we’ve got a recommendation to suit you. From Monaco to Cannes, wherever you’re docked, you’re never more than an hour away from any of our suggestions. Enjoy your well-deserved time off.
For the Fitness Fanatics
If you’ve been feeling a little caged after a busy few weeks onboard, then a good workout, hike or run might be exactly what you need to feel re-energised. There are plenty of beautifully scenic hikes to be done around the coast. In fact, you can check out one of our past blog posts for a thorough guide to the best hikes in the south of France. Our favourites are probably the classic Cap d’ Antibes, a one-way 5k from Antibes centre to the beautiful turquoise waters by Villa Eilenroc, and the 5k steep incline from Monaco Port up to La Turbie, where the views more than reward the effort. Real fitness fanatics can even complete the fitness trail on the way up.
Those based in Cannes can find two outdoor gyms by the sea that are completely free to use. The gyms include parallel bars and machines like leg presses, chest presses, bikes and cross trainers. You can find one just above the Capitainerie at Port Canto and another opposite the beach past the old port. Keen skateboarders will also be pleased to learn about the skate bowl that opened last year. Find it at the top of the Croisette, right opposite Port Canto.
The stunning Thermes Marins Monte Carlo is considered one of the premier wellness centres on the Riviera. It offers a heated seawater pool with a view of the Mediterranean, a Sentorium, cold bath and ice fountain, sauna and Hammam, solarium and Whirlpool. There’s also a Technogym training room where you can work up a sweat before a little rest and relaxation. A day pass will set you back €160 for weekdays and €200 at weekends, or spend €260 or more on treatments or services and access is complimentary.
For those who just want to get a workout done, a no-thrills option is Basic Fit. Basic Fit have gyms all over the Cote d’Azur, and each gym is packed with all the equipment and machines needed for a solid workout. You’ll find Basic Fit gyms in Nice, Antibes, Jean les Pins and Cannes, and day passes cost just €9.99 or buy in bulk for a discount.
For the Artsy
The French Riviera has been the home and muse to many of history’s greatest artists, and there are plenty of places to pass the hours admiring their great works. In Old Town, Antibes is the former residence of one of history’s most famous artists, Pablo Picasso. Château Grimaldi displays a number of his masterpieces along with work from Max Ernst, Yves Klein and Francis Picabia. Fernand Leger’s former residence is located in the neighbouring town of Biot and features 400 of the painter’s works. Pierre Auguste Renoir’s studio, paintings and sculptures are on show in his former residence in Cagnes-sur-Mer.
Slightly inland, the historical hilltop town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence is home to the Maeght Foundation, a space created by visionary art dealers Aimé and Marguerite Maeght and their great artist friends. 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the foundation, and from 6 June – 6 October, visitors can enjoy the exhibition “Friendships, Bonnard-Matisse for the 60th anniversary of the Maeght Foundation”, which includes a selection of rare works and documents.
In Nice, there’s an endless list of options. Wander the Marc Chagall National Museum and see the “Political Chagall – Freedom’s Cry”, exhibition (1 June – 16 September). The Musée Matisse is housed in a beautiful 17th-century Genoese villa and features the personal collection of the painter. This summer’s fascinating exhibition is entitled “MiróMatisse: Beyond Images”. It’s an exploration of the ties between Henri Matisse and Joan Miro and is a collaboration with Fundació Joan Miró in Barcelona. (28 June – 29 September).
The exceptional Villa and gardens of Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a must-see. One of the most beautiful homes in the Riviera is surrounded by nine magnificent gardens, and its grand interiors feature great works of art from all over the world. From 6 July 2024, Monaco Rock is the setting for a unique exhibition, “Turner, the sublime legacy”. Over 2,000 m² of the Grimaldi Forum will showcase a collection of works from the master of light, Joseph Mallord William Turner, evoking scenes of raging sea storms, unique landscapes and more.
For the Explorers
We understand that sometimes, after visiting beach town after beach town, things can start to feel a little stale and maybe a little familiar. However, the French Riviera has a lot to offer those wanting to get off the beaten track, away from the hoards and see and experience something new with their time off. Those in Cannes can easily hop on one of the shuttle ferries that run all day to and from the nearby Lerins Islands. These tranquil, protected islands offer a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. Wander the pine and eucalyptus forest of Ile Sainte-Marguerite while discovering archaeological ruins and the Fort Royal, once the prison of the Man in the Iron Mask, now a museum. Ile Saint-Honorat, the smaller island, is home to a fortified monastery that’s open to the public. Visitors can also shop at the onsite gift shop, purchasing wine, jam and other goods made by the island’s monks. From Cannes, there are also day trips by ferry to Saint Tropez and Monaco.
Time travel back into the past by visiting Eze. For the full experience, arrive by train and hike the Nietzsche Path up to the Medieval stone village. Perched high on a hillside overlooking the Mediterranean, the windy streets offer stunning picturesque views, sweet aromas of plants and flowers, shady squares, refreshing fountains, charming craft boutiques, inviting cafes, delicious Michelin-starred restaurants and the famous Jardin Exotique.
Drive inland, 90 minutes from Nice and discover the beauty of the Gorges du Verdon. As the largest canon in Europe, the site offers superb landscapes and stunning views. There’s plenty to do here, including swimming, kayaking, white water rafting, canyoning, hiking, cycling, climbing, and horseriding. Of course, you could always unwind at one of the gorges spas. With so much to see and do here, it’s recommended to stay overnight in one of the many hotels or campsites.
For the Romantic
What’s more important than spending a little one-on-one time with your significant other? The French Riviera is a playground for couples, so whether you’re looking to escape your working environment on the boat or to reconnect after time spent apart, there are romantic settings around every corner.
Arouse the senses and make a sweet-smelling gift for one another at Grasse’s famous perfume houses. Fragonard, Galimard and Molinard all offer fragrance creation workshops where you can create your own signature scent, and Grasse is just a quick train or bus ride from Cannes.
Take a break from the sun and stroll the shaded flower market in Nice at Cours Saleya. Colour and sweet scents burst from the stalls, enticing you further into the market where you can find an array of cut flowers and plants, spices, fruit, vegetables, olives, oils and soaps. End the day with a delicious cocktail as you watch the sunset from one of the city’s many rooftop bars. There are plenty to choose from around the city (and the rest of the Riviera), but our favourite in the city has to be Farago on the Roof atop the AC Marriott Hotel with its sensational 360-degree views, rooftop pool, and lively atmosphere.
The town of Menton, just past Monaco, is a beautiful destination for couples to explore. Its narrow streets, colourful buildings and lush gardens will leave you spellbound. Once you’ve finished exploring, relax on the scenic beach or sample some local specialities at one of the town’s superb restaurants.
July and August in Cannes is firework season as the famed Pyrotechnique Festival gets underway. Watch as six different countries compete for the coveted Vestale. From 10 pm on 4 July, 14 July, 22 July, 7 August, 15 August and 24 August you’ll see jaw-dropping displays from the masters of fireworks. Hold your loved one’s hand and watch the skies of Cannes sparkle in sync with original soundtracks.
For the Sun Seekers
If it’s sunshine you’re after, then you’re in luck. The Cote d’Azur enjoys countless hot and sunny days over the long summer season, and there are plenty of beautiful beaches to enjoy the weather. No matter where you’re docked, you’re never far from a public beach where you can rock up with a towel and sunscreen and spend the day swimming in the clear blue waters and tanning on the golden sandy beaches. There are also plenty of places to hire canoes, paddle boards, jet skis and other water toys.
If you’re looking to up the luxury, you’ll be pleased to learn that you’re spoilt for choice of beach clubs. Get comfy on a sunbed and enjoy the role reversal as you relax while someone else pours you a cocktail and serves you snacks. Situated perfectly between the yachtie hubs of Cannes and Antibes is Epi Beach in Jean les Pins. With luxurious sun loungers, beach and water toys, a bar, a restaurant and live entertainment, it’s certainly a great place to soak up the sun all day and welcome the night with a few sundowners.
If you’re thinking of checking out one of Cannes’s lavish beach clubs, then you have plenty of options. Carlton Beach Club, La Plage du Martinez, Miramar Plage and CBeach are all top-rated and often frequented by jet setters and famous faces. However, if you’re looking to hole up somewhere a little less opulent (and a little more purse-friendly), there are still several fantastic alternatives. Backtrack from the Croisette and keep walking past the Old Port until you stumble along Plage du Midi, the long stretch of beach reaching all the way to Mandeliu. Here, the beach clubs are priced a lot more reasonable, plus the water’s a lot clearer away from the Croisette. Our picks include L’Alba, O’Key Beach and Riviera Beach.
In Nice, the beaches are pebbled rather than sandy, but there’s still a great number of private beach clubs along Promenade des Anglais, with the most popular including Negresco Beach Club and Blue Beach. Between Nice and Monaco, the beautiful and secluded Eden Plage Mala is located on a private sandy cove near Cap d Ail. While maybe not a budget-friendly option, it is set in a beautiful location and has a luxurious feel with an onsite restaurant, spa, and boutique. There are also two caves that can be explored.
In Monaco, there’s the very swanky Monte Carlo Beach Club and Nikki Beach, located on the Fairmont Monte Carlo rooftop, offering breathtaking views of the principality.
For the Party People
The Cote d’Azur is alive with the sound of music over the summer months. From beach clubs, jazz cafes, acoustic pub performances, nightclubs, and festivals, there’s enough going on to cater for all types of musical tastes. When in Nice, be sure to grab at least one drink at Le Shapko and watch some of their amazing blues and jazz performers. In Cannes, an iconic experience is to dance away the afternoon atop the tables of the famous La Guerite, situated on the island of Sainte Marguerite.
For notable nightclubs, in Cannes, check out Baoli at Port Canto, La Siesta Night Club in Antibes, Le Village in Jean les Pins, Le High Club in Nice and Jimmy’z in Monaco.
Some of the summer’s most popular festivals include Jean les Pins Jazz Festival (8-18 July), Nice Classic Festival (11 July – 11 Aug), Nice’s Neon Festival (26-28 July), Plage Electronic in Cannes (16-18 August), Le Bal des Fous on top of the iconic Festival du Palais in Cannes (July & August).
For the Foodies
Foodies will be in their element on the Cote d’Azur. With fresh, local produce engrained in the culture, your tastebuds will tingle in delight with every bite. You’ll find daily open-air fresh produce markets in each town, the most notable including Marche Forville in Cannes (Tuesday to Sunday from 7.30 am to 1 pm, Antiques on Monday), Marché Provencal in Antibes (Tuesday to Sunday from 6 am to 1.45 pm) and Marché du Cours Saleya in Nice (Tuesday to Sunday from 6 am to 1.30 pm and until 5 pm for the flower market).
From Monaco to Saint Tropez, there are over 40 Michelin Star restaurants for fine dining enthusiasts to discover, with the most famous including the La Chèvre d’Or in Èze offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, an elegant atmosphere and creative yet sophisticated cuisine. Antibes’s Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit is named after the old fig tree that shades the private stone courtyard in which customers dine. The set menus are based on the fresh produce available at the local daily market and the local organic wines. Located near the port of Nice, ONice’s duo chefs Florencia Montes and Lorenzo Ragni, offer seasonal cuisine with a menu that adapts daily. You can find a full list of Michelin-star restaurants on the Cote d’Azur website.
France is famous for its wine, and in the Cote d’Azur, Rose is the flavour of the region. If you’re interested in learning about wine production and tasting some of the delicious locally-produced nectar, there are plenty of wine tours available to book online. This eight-hour trip from Nice takes small groups of eight to three local wineries, where you’ll explore the wine production from start to finish and taste the end result.
If you like to stay on trend and eat at Instagram hotspots, you’ll be pleased to know there’s plenty around. Grab a coffee and baked goods from Clay Coffee at 47 rue Gioffredo Nice, or head to Le Plongeoir for dinner or cocktails perched over the sea on the famous rock. In Monaco, the newly opened Amazonico will take you on a sensory journey through the Amazon with a blend of tropical and Latin American cuisines. The new hotspot in Cannes is Zuma at Palm Beach, offering a sophisticated twist on the traditional Japanese Izakaya style of informal eating and drinking. Anjuna Plage in Eze blends the French Riviera with Bali at their beach club, and you’ll find rave reviews of both the décor and food all over Instagram.
For the Shopaholics
No matter your budget, your passion for shopping can be indulged in the French Riviera. In Cannes, The Croisette is home to the world’s most famous designer labels, whereas Rue d’Antibes, the inland street that runs parallel, is where you’ll find more affordable options such as Zara, The Kooples, Mango and Massimo Dutti.
In Nice, there’s something for every taste with the high street retailers that line Avenue Jean Medecin, the luxury labels to the west side of Messena Square and the independent boutiques, craft and souvenir stores in the old town. There are also two shopping centres home to many favourite high street brands that are easily reachable by train or car – Cap 3000 at Saint Laurent du Var and Polygon Riviera in Cagnes sur Mer.
Monaco offers mostly luxury shopping, so head to the Golden Circle that surrounds Monte Carlo’s casino or to the cool interior of Metropole Shopping.
Travelling Around
Travelling the coastal towns of the Cote d’Azur could not be easier. The scenic train line runs all the way from Ventigmilia in Italy, past Monaco and down to Cannes, stopping at each town, with connecting trains that run further down to Frejus. Note that trains do not run 24 hours a day and usually stop from 10 pm to midnight, depending on the day of the week, with the first trains starting around 5/6 am.
Travelling inland can be a little more challenging, but there is a good network of buses that will get you where you want to go. The best way to plan your journeys and buy tickets is by using the SNCF Connect app. The app allows you to buy and download train tickets and also plan journeys by showing connecting bus journey times and walking times to different stations.
Uber is another heavily used option for travelling around and works out a lot cheaper than using local taxis that wait outside train stations and airports.
Hopefully, some of our suggestions will make the cut the next time you’re in the South of France with time for yourself. Let us know if you think there’s anything we missed out by emailing us at [email protected]. Browse all FunAir superyacht inflatables at FunAir.com and connect with us on socials to keep up to date with all the fun stuff.