A French Riviera Road Trip: Our Discerning Guide To The Coast
The French Riviera. This legendary stretch of coastline continues to cast its spell, a compelling blend of sun-drenched glamour, artistic heritage, and a distinct charm. Beyond the well-trodden paths, there are secret corners and enduring favorites to discover. This is our curated guide to eating, sleeping, and exploring the Riviera, venturing beyond the obvious to unveil its true essence.

This article has been updated in June 2025
Menton: The Citrus-Scented Secret
Menton, often hailed as the Riviera’s best-kept secret, nestles gracefully on the Franco-Italian border. It’s a town of vibrant hues, compelling beaches, and a culinary scene that truly reflects its dual heritage.
When to Visit: Consider a journey in February to experience the captivating Lemon Festival, a joyful celebration unique to Menton.
Where to Indulge: Mirazur, with its three Michelin stars, offers an unparalleled gastronomic experience, continually ranked among the world's finest restaurants.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: Gardens & Glimmering Waters
This picturesque village epitomizes Riviera elegance, famed for its crystal-clear waters, exquisite gardens, and palatial villas.
What to See: Explore the enchanting Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a true architectural marvel surrounded by themed gardens.
Where to Unwind: Paloma Beach, named after Paloma Picasso, is a classic Riviera beach club. Its restaurant, specializing in perfectly grilled fresh fish, remains a timeless choice for a seaside lunch.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence: An Artistic Sanctuary
This hilltop town is an essential stop for art lovers, where creativity permeates every ancient stone and sun-drenched gallery.
Artistic Pursuits: Wander through its local galleries, and immerse yourself in the collections at the Maeght Foundation and the CAB Foundation. Discover compelling contemporary works at Galerie Catherine Issert. Note: The Biennale Internationale Saint-Paul de Vence returns from July 6 to September 18, 2025, offering a compelling artistic event.
Where to Retreat: Toile Blanche offers a discerning stay, blending art and tranquility.
Where to Indulge:
La Colombe d’Or: This iconic hotel and restaurant is legendary for its art collection, where original works by Picasso and Miró adorn the walls. It’s a unique culinary and cultural experience.
Les Remparts: Offers another compelling dining experience within the town’s historic setting.
Nightcaps: For unforgettable sunset drinks, head to Chez Andréas.
Mougins: A Gastronomic Village
Mougins, a charming village perched above Cannes, is a haven for culinary enthusiasts.
What to Experience: While the specific August festival might vary, Mougins often hosts compelling gastronomic events, such as the Mougins Food Festival (June 14-16, 2025), celebrating its vibrant culinary scene.
Where to Indulge: Resto des Arts offers a delightful dining experience.
Where to Retreat: Le Mas Candille , a distinguished hotel, offers a serene stay complete with a rejuvenating spa and an appealing infinity pool.
Grasse: The World's Perfume Capital
A quick, aromatic stop in Grasse, the undisputed world's perfume capital, is a must.
What to Do: Discover the secrets of scent creation and perhaps acquire a unique fragrance after visiting the International Perfume Museum.
Antibes: History, Art & Riviera Bliss
Antibes blends historic charm with a vibrant coastal energy, offering compelling experiences for the discerning traveler.
Local Flavors: Immerse yourself in the daily bustle of the Marche Provencal, a sensory feast of local produce and crafts.
Artistic Delights: Explore the Picasso Museum, housed in the Château Grimaldi, where the artist once worked.
Beachside Sanctuary: Plage Keller remains a favored spot for sun-drenched days and delectable seaside dining.
Where to Retreat : Cap d'Antibes Beach Hotel is a discerning choice for a stay. This Relais & Châteaux property blends contemporary design with its private sandy beach, offering a tranquil and understated sanctuary. Its Michelin-starred restaurant, Les Pêcheurs, provides an elevated dining experience, while Le Cap offers relaxed beachside dining.
Theoule-sur-Mer: Architectural Wonders
Where to Retreat: Opened in Spring 2024, Château de Théoule is a compelling new addition to the Riviera's collection of distinguished hotels. This 5-star property, once a 17th-century soap factory, has been meticulously reimagined, blending understated luxury with unspoiled nature. All 44 rooms and suites offer panoramic sea views, and it boasts a private sandy beach, a world-class spa, and exceptional culinary offerings including the Michelin-starred Mareluna restaurant (blending Italian, French, and Japanese influences) and the relaxed beachfront La Plage Blanche.
What to See: Discover Le Palais Bulles, the "Bubble Palace," a unique architectural marvel that defies convention, occasionally open for events or visits.
Saint-Raphael: Modernist Charms
Where to Retreat: Les Roches Rouges in Saint-Raphael offers a distinctive stay. This hotel embodies Fifties Modernist design, poised directly on the water, providing direct access to the sea and a unique perspective on the coastline.
Inland Escapes: Authentic Flavors
Where to Indulge: Venture inland to Auberge de la Môle for a truly authentic taste of the region, renowned for its all-you-can-eat local specialties – a hearty and convivial experience.
Photo credits: Dylan Don.
Porquerolles Island: Art & Nature's Embrace
What to Discover: On Porquerolles Island, the Fondation Carmignac offers a compelling fusion of contemporary art and nature, with a museum and sculpture park set amidst stunning landscapes.
Where to Retreat: Sainte Anne provides a charming accommodation option on the island.
Marseille & Les Goudes: Urban Edge Meets Coastal Soul
Marseille, with its raw energy, offers a different facet of the Riviera. Its coastal fringes, like Les Goudes, are gaining distinct attention.
Where to Indulge & Play: Tuba Club in Les Goudes is a compelling spot for eating, drinking, and swimming, capturing the essence of Marseillaise coastal life.
What to Explore: This area is an ideal base for discovering Marseille's vibrant culture and venturing into the dramatic nearby calanques, with Cassis being a particularly worthwhile visit.
Deeper Dive: For a comprehensive guide to the city, consult our other 84 Rooms guides for Marseille here.
84 Rooms recommends: A Postcard From La Colombe d'Or, and Aix-en-Provence: A Provencal Masterpiece.