The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) in southern France is often hailed as one of Europe’s most romantic seaside destinations. Starting from Nice, you can journey east or west to explore the breathtaking coastal towns where mountains meet the sea—Cannes with its celebrity glitz, Eze with its cliffside castles, Monaco’s luxurious estates, and the artistic charm of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
This isn’t just a visual feast; it’s a soul-soothing slow travel experience. This 5-day, 4-night loop itinerary uses Nice as both the start and end point, connecting iconic landmarks with hidden gems along the way. If you’re a first-time visitor seeking an immersive experience of the French Riviera beyond the highlights, this itinerary is for you. Let’s dive into an authentic Côte d’Azur adventure!
Day 1: Deep Dive into Nice – Embrace Everyday Mediterranean Life
Morning: Stroll Through Old Town (Vieux Nice) & Market Discovery
The Old Town of Nice is a maze of colorful buildings and winding alleys—perfect for discovering local life. Head to Cours Saleya Market in the morning, where you’ll find fresh fruit, olives, flowers, and handmade crafts. For breakfast, try the local street food specialty Socca (chickpea pancake).
Suggested walking route:
- Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate
- Cours Saleya Market (Open Tuesday–Sunday)
- Wander the alleys and snap photos of colorful shutters and charming facades
Noon: Picnic Along the Promenade des Anglais
Grab some snacks from the market and walk along the Promenade des Anglais until you find a nice spot on the pebbled beach. Enjoy a Mediterranean-style picnic by the sea.
Afternoon: Climb Castle Hill (Colline du Château)
Climb or take the free elevator (Ascenseur du Château) to the top of Castle Hill for panoramic views of Nice and its coastline. The summit also features ruins, a waterfall, and a playground—ideal for relaxation.
Evening: Port-Side Dining & Niçoise Seafood Feast
For dinner, head to the Nice Port area. Recommended restaurants include Le Bistrot du Port and La Shounga, where you can try Bouillabaisse (Provençal fish stew) or grilled squid with olive oil.
Recommended stays:
- Hôtel Florence Nice: Eco-friendly and within walking distance of the Old Town
- Hotel Villa Rivoli: A charming French-style villa in a quiet neighborhood
Day 2: Monaco + Eze – Where Luxury Meets Nature
Morning: Explore the Principality of Monaco (Depart from Nice at 8 AM)
Take a 25-minute train ride from Nice to Monaco—one of the world’s smallest yet wealthiest countries.
Must-see sights:
- Monaco-Ville (Old Town): The Prince’s Palace and State Apartments
- Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate (final resting place of Princess Grace)
- Oceanographic Museum of Monaco
Optionally, visit the Monte Carlo Casino for a James Bond-style experience.
Noon: Lunch at Monaco’s Port
Enjoy a Mediterranean seafood platter at one of the harbor’s open-air restaurants while watching luxury yachts glide by.
Afternoon: Eze – A Medieval Marvel on a Cliff
Take a bus or taxi from Monaco to Eze (approx. 20 minutes). This stone village perched on a cliff feels like a time machine to the Middle Ages.
Highlights:
- Jardin Exotique (Exotic Garden)
- Fragonard Perfumery: Free guided tour and DIY perfume-making experience
Evening: Return to Nice for a Seaside Dinner
Day 3: Antibes + Cannes – Where Art Meets Cinema
Morning: Antibes – Picasso’s Seaside Retreat
A 30-minute train ride from Nice takes you to Antibes, a town rich in both history and artistic spirit.
Suggested stops:
- Picasso Museum (Musée Picasso): A treasure trove of artworks in a historic building
- Fort Carré: A sea-facing fortress
- Old Port of Antibes: A great place to stroll and watch fishermen at work
Noon: Provençal Lunch at the Market
Head to Marché Provençal to sample local delicacies like cheeses, olives, prepared foods, and regional wine. Many small bistros nearby allow you to enjoy a casual lunch al fresco.
Afternoon: Cannes – Where the Red Carpet Meets the Beach
Take a 20-minute train ride to Cannes, where golden beaches and Hollywood glam await.
Top sights:
- Palais des Festivals (Festival Hall) and the handprint walk
- Boulevard de la Croisette: Lined with luxury hotels and designer boutiques
- Public or Private Beaches: Relax with a cocktail and sea breeze
Evening: Dine by Cannes’ Port
Savor grilled fish or escargot at a cozy restaurant near the marina.
Return to Nice or stay overnight in Cannes to explore its nightlife.
Day 4: Saint-Paul-de-Vence – Where Peace Meets Art
Morning: Travel to Saint-Paul-de-Vence (Approx. 1 hour by bus or car)
Known as the “village of painters,” Saint-Paul-de-Vence is perched on a hilltop surrounded by rolling vineyards and olive groves. This enchanting village has long attracted artists like Marc Chagall, Picasso, and Modigliani, who came seeking inspiration from its golden light and tranquil beauty. Upon arrival, let yourself get lost in its labyrinth of cobblestone streets, where every turn reveals quaint stone cottages, blooming window boxes, and panoramic views of the countryside and the sea.
Must-visits:
- Fondation Maeght: This avant-garde modern art museum boasts works by Miró, Calder, Giacometti, and more, displayed both indoors and in serene outdoor sculpture gardens.
- Café de la Place: Grab a coffee where Chagall once sketched on napkins and played pétanque with locals. The café remains the social heart of the village.
- Wander cobblestone lanes: Visit artisan boutiques, small galleries, and hidden courtyards framed by ivy and roses. Every corner invites you to linger.
Noon: Artistic Dining Experience
Have lunch at the iconic La Colombe d’Or, a place where art and cuisine meet. This legendary restaurant has hosted generations of artists, many of whom paid for their meals with original artworks. As you enjoy classic Provençal dishes like duck confit or ratatouille with rosé wine, you’ll dine beside Picassos, Braques, and Légers hanging on the walls—not in a museum, but in a warm, rustic dining room. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially in high season.
Afternoon: Optional Stop in Vence or Free Time in Nice
If you’re craving more artistic inspiration, head to Vence, just 15 minutes away. Here, you can visit Chapelle du Rosaire, designed by Henri Matisse in his later years—a small yet radiant space filled with stained glass and hand-drawn murals. Alternatively, return to Nice for a more leisurely pace. Stroll through local markets, browse shops for handmade lavender soaps, Provençal fabrics, or colorful ceramics that make perfect souvenirs.
Evening: Treat Yourself to Fine Dining
Celebrate your fourth evening with an elevated culinary experience back in Nice.
Recommended restaurants:
- JAN (1 Michelin star): Chef Jan Hendrik’s South African-French fusion tasting menu is a refined, multi-sensory journey. The service is intimate and impeccable, perfect for a special night.
- Peixes: A modern, laid-back seafood bistro where you can try dishes like ceviche with yuzu or grilled octopus with saffron aioli. Great for foodies who love flavor experimentation.
Day 5: Wind Down – Coastal Relaxation & Departure
Morning: Breakfast by the Bay + Water Activities
Start your final day slowly with a peaceful breakfast overlooking the Baie des Anges. Many beach cafés offer fresh pastries, juices, and coffee just steps from the sea. Afterward, indulge in one last Mediterranean adventure—rent a sun lounger and unwind to the sound of waves, or choose a water activity like stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, or snorkeling along the rocky coves. Not feeling active? Many beachfront hotels have serene pools perfect for quiet reflection and tanning before your journey home.
Noon: Farewell Lunch at Le Plongeoir
End your trip with a memorable meal at Le Plongeoir, an extraordinary restaurant perched on a rock above the sea. Accessed via a footbridge, this unique spot offers 360° views of the turquoise waters and Nice’s coastline. The menu focuses on seasonal ingredients with Mediterranean flair—try the lobster risotto, grilled dorade, or a chilled rosé paired with fresh oysters. The relaxed yet sophisticated vibe makes it the ideal setting to toast to an unforgettable journey.
Afternoon: Return Journey
Depending on your departure time, you can squeeze in one last cultural stop. Art lovers should consider a quick visit to MAMAC (Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art), which features works from Yves Klein and Andy Warhol. Alternatively, head to the Marc Chagall National Museum, a tranquil space filled with the artist’s vivid biblical series and stained glass windows. It’s a poetic way to close a journey that has balanced sun, sea, and soul in perfect harmony.
Practical Tips & Travel Advice
- Transport Passes: Consider buying a TER train pass or ZOU! Pass for savings and convenience.
- Packing: Bring light, breathable clothing, swimwear, and sunglasses. Wear sturdy shoes for hilly towns like Eze and Saint-Paul.
- Cuisine Notes: Provençal cuisine is often salty and herb-heavy—pairs well with wine. Vegetarians should inform restaurants in advance.
- Peak Season Tips: July and August are high season—book accommodation and key attractions at least one month in advance.
Every Day on the Riviera is a Heartbeat Moment
From Nice to Monaco, from mountaintops to sandy shores, from film halls to artist enclaves, this 5-day, 4-night French Riviera loop is rich, well-paced, and unforgettable. Whether you’re a culture buff, foodie, or beach lover, you’ll discover your version of French happiness here.
May this journey not just be a checklist, but a soul-deep encounter with the light and breeze of the Mediterranean coast.