I’ve traveled to France half a dozen times, but most of those trips were spent in Paris. For over 20 years, visiting the French Riviera was at the top of my bucket list. Unlike Paris, where travel guides and itineraries are abundant, I found surprisingly little detailed and practical advice for planning the perfect trip to Nice and the must-see destinations in the South of France.
I scoured TripAdvisor, Google, and YouTube, searching for the best recommendations. But instead of relying solely on scattered travel blogs, I turned to A.I. (ChatGPT) to help craft a unique itinerary—one tailored to my travel style, packed with the best experiences, and optimized for an unforgettable French Riviera adventure.
Our journey began in Paris, where we spent two days soaking in the city’s charm before taking a high-speed train to Nice—the starting point of our ultimate 5-day French Riviera itinerary.
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While my original AI-planned itinerary included too many destinations, we decided to scale back and truly immerse ourselves in the region. Using Nice as our base, we explored Villefranche-sur-Mer by e-bike and took scenic train rides to Cannes, Monaco, and Menton. And even after five incredible days, I realized there’s still so much more to see in the French Riviera!
Day 1: Exploring Nice – Beaches, Old Town, and Panoramic Views
- Walk along Promenade des Anglais and explore Old Town Nice.
- Visit Cours Saleya Market and enjoy local cuisine.
- Watch the sunset from Castle Hill.
Day 2: Monte Carlo, Monaco & Menton – Luxury, Culture, and Coastal Beauty
- Discover Monte Carlo Casino, Casino Square, and Port Hercules.
- Explore Monaco’s Old Town (Le Rocher), Prince’s Palace, and the Oceanographic Museum.
- Travel to Menton, visit the Basilica Saint-Michel, and stroll along the Promenade du Soleil.
Day 3: Antibes & Cannes – Art, History, and Film Festival Glamour
- Explore Old Town Antibes, visit the Picasso Museum, and walk along Port Vauban.
- Stroll through Cannes’ La Croisette, visit the Palais des Festivals, and explore Le Suquet.
- Watch the sunset over Vieux Port and enjoy fine dining in Cannes.
Day 4: Villefranche-sur-Mer & Cap Ferrat – Hidden Gems and Coastal Elegance
- Take an e-bike to Villefranche-sur-Mer, one of the most beautiful seaside villages.
- Walk along the picturesque Plage des Marinières and explore the Citadel of Villefranche.
- Visit Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, known for its luxurious villas and scenic hiking trails.
Day 5: Eze & Villefranche-sur-Mer – Medieval Charm and Coastal Beauty
- Wander through Eze Village, visit the Exotic Garden, and tour Fragonard Perfume Factory.
- Travel to Villefranche-sur-Mer, relax on Plage des Marinières, and explore the Citadel of Villefranche.
- Enjoy a seaside farewell dinner with stunning Mediterranean views.
Best Hotels to Stay in the French Riviera
Luxury Hotels ($$$$) – Ultimate Riviera Experience
Hotel Negresco
- Hôtel Negresco, Nice – A historic five-star hotel located on the Promenade des Anglais, offering a blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.
- Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Monaco – A glamorous stay next to the Monte Carlo Casino, perfect for those seeking a high-end Riviera experience.
- Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes – An iconic celebrity-favorite hotel with private villas and breathtaking ocean views.
Mid-Range Hotels ($$-$$$) – Best Value for Comfort & Location
- Le Meridien Nice – A stylish beachfront hotel with a rooftop pool and easy access to Old Town Nice.
- Hotel Barrière Le Majestic, Cannes – Located near the Palais des Festivals, ideal for film lovers looking for a scenic and central stay.
- La Perouse Nice Baie des Anges – A boutique hotel offering panoramic views of the French Riviera coastline.
Budget-Friendly Hotels ($-$$) – Affordable Yet Comfortable
- Ibis Styles Nice Centre Gare – A modern, budget-friendly hotel within walking distance of Nice Ville Train Station.
- Villa Saint Exupéry Beach Hostel, Nice – A great option for solo travelers or backpackers looking for an affordable, social atmosphere.
- Hotel de la Fontaine, Nice – A small, cozy hotel located minutes from the Promenade des Anglais.
Booking hotels in advance, especially during peak season, ensures the best rates and availability.
Best Time to Visit the French Riviera
Spring (March – May) – Pleasant and Less Crowded
With temperatures ranging from 59-72°F (15-22°C), spring offers ideal weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Fewer tourists mean lower hotel prices and a more relaxed experience. However, the sea may still be too cold for swimming.
Summer (June – August) – Peak Season
Temperatures reach 77-95°F (25-35°C), making it perfect for beachgoers and nightlife enthusiasts. The region comes alive with festivals, including the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix. However, accommodation prices are at their highest, and crowds can be overwhelming.
Fall (September – November) – Ideal for Budget and Scenery
With temperatures around 64-77°F (18-25°C), early fall still offers warm beach days without the summer rush. This season is also great for wine lovers, as it coincides with the grape harvest. Many beach clubs start closing in mid-September.
Winter (December – February) – Low Season and Holiday Festivities
Temperatures average 50-59°F (10-15°C), making it a great time for sightseeing and enjoying holiday markets. Travelers can experience the region without crowds and at significantly lower costs, though swimming and beach activities are off the table.
How to Get Around the French Riviera
By Train – Best for City-Hopping
The SNCF TER train line connects key cities such as Nice, Monaco, Cannes, Antibes, Menton, and Villefranche-sur-Mer. Tickets range from €2-€12 per trip, making it the most efficient and affordable way to explore the region.
By Taxi and Uber – Expensive but Convenient
Taxis in Nice and Monaco start at €10-€15 per ride. Uber is available but can surge in price during peak hours.
By E-Bike or Scooter – Ideal for Small Villages
Exploring places like Villefranche-sur-Mer and Cap Ferrat by e-bike is an excellent way to see the coastline. Rental prices start at €20 per day.
By Rental Car – Best for Small Villages and Scenic Drives
A rental car is the best option for reaching destinations like Saint-Tropez, Eze, and the Provence wine region. Parking in Nice, Monaco, and Cannes is expensive, so it’s best to book accommodations with parking included.
Budget Breakdown for 5 Days in the French Riviera
| Expense Category | Budget (€) | Mid-Range (€) | Luxury (€) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (5 nights) | 200-400 | 600-1200 | 3000+ |
| Food & Drinks | 150-250 | 350-600 | 1000+ |
| Transportation | 50-100 | 150-250 | 500+ |
| Activities & Tours | 100-200 | 300-600 | 1000+ |
| Total Cost (5 days) | 500-1000 | 1500-2500 | 5000+ |
Public transportation, local dining spots, and hotel reward points can help reduce costs while still allowing for an enjoyable trip.
Packing Tips for the French Riviera
Summer Essentials
- Light, breathable clothing such as linen shirts, summer dresses, and shorts.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat for sun protection.
- Swimsuit and beachwear for days on the Mediterranean.
- A chic outfit for upscale dining or a night out in Monaco or Cannes.
Spring/Fall Essentials
- A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring historic towns and coastal paths.
- A travel umbrella or light rain jacket for occasional showers.
Winter Essentials
- Warm layers, a stylish coat, and scarves for evening outings.
- Comfortable boots for walking through city streets.
- A power bank, as cold weather can drain phone batteries faster.
Is the French Riviera Worth Visiting?
The French Riviera offers a unique mix of luxury, history, and natural beauty, making it a top European destination. From the glamorous nightlife of Monaco to the charming villages of Saint-Paul de Vence and the stunning beaches of Nice, this region has something for every traveler.
For those planning a trip, this five-day itinerary provides a perfect balance of exploration and relaxation. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, the South of France promises an unforgettable experience.
Would you visit the French Riviera for five days, or extend your stay to explore more hidden gems? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
How Many Days Do You Need in the French Riviera?
If you’re wondering, “Is 5 days enough for the French Riviera?”—I’ll be honest: I wish I had at least 7 to 10 days! Next time, I’ll make sure to visit even more gems like Saint-Tropez, Antibes, Eze, and Saint-Paul de Vence.
FAQ’s
Yes, a 5-day itinerary allows you to experience several highlights of the French Riviera, including cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, as well as charming villages such as Èze and Villefranche-sur-Mer. While more time would enable deeper exploration, 5 days can provide a fulfilling experience.
Beyond the popular destinations, consider visiting places like the medieval village of Èze, the artistic hub of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and the secluded beaches of Îles de Lérins. These spots offer unique experiences away from the typical tourist paths
The ideal time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October). During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. I traveled in September and the weather was pleasant and there were fewer tourists.
The French Riviera has an efficient public transportation system, including trains and buses, connecting major cities and towns. Renting a car is also an option, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace. We traveled all the towns along the French Riviera via SNCF connect train line. It is very convenient!
To save money, consider traveling during the off-peak season, using public transportation, dining at local markets, and booking accommodations in smaller towns or villages. Additionally, many attractions offer discounted rates on certain days or for advance bookings.