5 Days French Riviera, France Itinerary
Experience the best of the French Riviera in five days, exploring Nice, Monaco, Cannes, and Eze. This itinerary combines iconic landmarks with hidden gems, culinary delights, and breathtaking views, ensuring a luxurious and unforgettable trip.
Duration
5 days
Budget
$1500-2500
Best Time
The French Riviera is best visited in late spring (April-May) or early autumn (September-October)
Activities
30
Daily Avg
$400/day
Cities
Nice (1d), Monaco (1d), Eze and Nice (1d), Cannes (2d)
Pace
Fast
The French Riviera offers a blend of glamour, stunning coastal scenery, and rich cultural experiences. From the vibrant streets of Nice to the opulent casinos of Monaco and the film history of Cannes, it's a destination that caters to diverse interests.
Your itinerary covers 9 of 11 must-have experiences
A Glamorous Coastal Promenade
Day 1: Stroll along Promenade des Anglais
A Perched Medieval Village
Day 3: Bus to Eze Village
A Vibrant Local Food Market
Day 1: Cours Saleya Market
A World-Class Art Museum/Gallery
Day 2: Visit the Oceanographic Museum
A Luxurious Villa & Garden
Day 3: Bus to Eze Village
A Scenic Coastal Drive
e.g., Grande Corniche Road (Nice to Menton), Moyenne Corniche Road (Nice to Monaco)
A Chic Beach Club Experience
Day 5: Relax at a Private Beach Club
A High-Stakes Casino Visit
Day 2: Visit the Oceanographic Museum
A Picturesque Port Town
Day 1: Wander Vieux Nice (Old Town)
A Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting
Day 3: Fragonard Perfumery Tour
A Unique Island Escape
e.g., Île Sainte-Marguerite (Lérins Islands), Île Saint-Honorat (Lérins Islands)
The French Riviera offers a vibrant culinary scene blending fresh seafood, Provençal herbs, and Italian influences. Expect sun-drenched flavors and a focus on local ingredients, creating a unique and unforgettable dining experience. From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual bistros, there's something for every palate.
Must-Try Dishes
A thin, crispy pancake made from chickpea flour, seasoned with olive oil and pepper. It's a simple yet delicious street food staple. Try it fresh from the oven!
📍 Street vendors and local markets, especially in Nice's Old Town (Vieux Nice)
A classic salad with tomatoes, olives, anchovies, hard-boiled eggs, and sometimes green beans and potatoes. Authentic versions typically don't include cooked potatoes.
📍 Most restaurants and cafes throughout the Riviera
A rich and flavorful fish stew originating from Marseille. Made with a variety of Mediterranean fish, shellfish, and Provençal herbs. It's a hearty and satisfying dish.
📍 Seafood restaurants in Marseille, Nice, and other coastal towns. Look for places with a 'Bouillabaisse' sign outside.
A type of pizza-like tart topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and black olives. It's a savory and flavorful snack or light meal.
📍 Bakeries and cafes in Nice and surrounding areas
Food Neighborhoods
Known for Socca, local markets, and traditional Niçoise cuisine
Famous for its flower market and numerous restaurants serving fresh seafood and local specialties
The old town of Cannes, offering a mix of traditional and modern restaurants with stunning views
Celebrated for its lemons, influencing the local cuisine with citrus flavors
Vegetarian options are generally available, especially salads and pasta dishes. Vegan options are less common but can be found in larger cities. Gluten-free bread and pasta are becoming more widespread, but it's always best to inquire in advance. For halal food, look for restaurants serving Middle Eastern or North African cuisine. Always clearly communicate any allergies to the waitstaff.
It's customary to say 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' when entering a restaurant. Wait to be seated. Tipping is generally included in the bill (service compris), but you can leave a small additional tip (5-10%) for exceptional service. Bread is usually served without asking and is meant to be eaten with your meal. Don't be afraid to try local specialties!
Bastille Day
Fete NationaleFrench National Day with military parade on Champs-Elysees and Eiffel Tower fireworks.
Note: Book hotel near Champs-Elysees early
Cannes Film Festival
Festival de CannesWorld's most prestigious film festival attracting celebrities and cinema lovers.
Note: Book 4+ months ahead
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶From your hotel in Vieux Nice, walk to Cours Saleya Market.$10-20
9:00 AM - Cours Saleya Market
Start your day at the vibrant Cours Saleya flower and food market. Sample local delicacies like socca (chickpea pancake) and buy fresh produce. Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best selection.
Book on Klook - 🚶Cours Saleya Market is located within Vieux Nice, so just continue exploring on foot.FREE
11:00 AM - Wander Vieux Nice (Old Town)
Explore the narrow, winding streets of Vieux Nice, filled with colorful buildings, artisan shops, and charming cafes. Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys and discover hidden squares.
Book on Klook - 🚶La Petite Maison is a short walk from Vieux Nice.$50-75
1:00 PM - Lunch at La Petite Maison
Enjoy a sophisticated lunch at La Petite Maison, known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine and elegant ambiance. Reservations are highly recommended.
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- 🚶From La Petite Maison, walk towards the coast and follow signs to Castle Hill.FREE
3:00 PM - Hike to Castle Hill
Climb to Castle Hill for panoramic views of Nice and the Baie des Anges. You can either take the stairs or the elevator. Pack water and wear comfortable shoes.
Book on Klook - 🚶Castle Hill overlooks Promenade des Anglais, so walk down and stroll along the promenade.$15-30
6:00 PM - Stroll along Promenade des Anglais
Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, enjoying the sea breeze and the beautiful sunset. Stop for a drink at one of the beachfront bars.
Book on Klook
Old Town (Vieux Nice)
Central location, close to attractions, restaurants, and the beach.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The French Riviera is best visited in late spring (April-May) or early autumn (September-October). During these periods, the weather is pleasantly warm and sunny, ideal for sightseeing and beach activities, with fewer crowds than the peak summer months. Summer (June-August) is vibrant but can be very hot, crowded, and more expensive, especially during major events like the Cannes Film Festival (May) or Monaco Grand Prix (May). Winter (November-March) is mild, quieter, and more budget-friendly, though some coastal attractions might have reduced hours.
Expect sunny days with comfortable temperatures. Evenings can be slightly cooler, so pack a light jacket. Rainfall is infrequent during this time.
Shoulder season offers pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more reasonable prices compared to the peak summer months.
Check for local holidays and events as they may affect opening hours and transportation schedules.
Getting Around
TGV high-speed rail; Paris Métro is extensive
Navigo Card (Paris)
Get a Navigo card for unlimited Paris transport. Book TGV tickets early for best prices.
Travel
$200-400 (trains, buses, Ubers)Accommodation
$750-1250 (luxury hotels)Food
$400-600 (fine dining, cafes)Activities
$150-300 (tours, entrance fees)Opt for local buses and regional trains (TER) over taxis or private transfers for inter-town travel; public transport is very affordable (e.g., a single bus ticket in Nice is €1.50).
Embrace picnics and self-catering. Buy fresh produce, local cheeses, and delicious bread from local markets (like Marché Forville in Cannes or Cours Saleya in Nice) for scenic and budget-friendly meals.
Indulge in a scenic boat tour along the coastline, perhaps to discover hidden coves, enjoy a sunset cruise, or experience the glamour of Monaco and Saint-Tropez from the sea.
Experience fine dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant. The French Riviera boasts many, offering exquisite cuisine, often with stunning views and impeccable service.
Explore the 'villages perchés' (perched villages) inland like Èze, Gourdon, or Saint-Paul-de-Vence. They offer incredible panoramic views, unique charm, and often fewer crowds with more reasonable prices than coastal towns.
Look for 'menu du jour' (menu of the day) or 'formule midi' specials at local restaurants during lunchtime. These often offer excellent value for a multi-course meal compared to ordering à la carte at dinner.
- Learn a few basic French phrases (hello, goodbye, please, thank you). Locals generally appreciate the effort, even if you switch to English afterward.
- Utilize the efficient public transportation network (trains and buses) to travel between coastal towns. It's often more scenic, convenient, and cost-effective than driving and parking.
- Be mindful of lunch hours (typically 12 PM - 2 PM) and early dinner times (around 7 PM). Some smaller shops or restaurants may close for an extended lunch break, especially in smaller towns.
- Always carry a form of identification (passport or national ID) with you, as it might be required for certain purchases, official checks, or even when using a credit card.
- Sun protection is paramount. Even on cloudy days, the Mediterranean sun can be intense. Apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and seek shade during peak hours.
- Pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas (e.g., Nice's Old Town, Cannes' Croisette) and on public transport. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially bags and wallets.
- Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's wise to carry some small euro notes (€5, €10, €20) for local markets, small cafes, public restrooms, or tips (though tipping is not mandatory, rounding up is common).
- Stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months. Tap water is safe to drink throughout the region, so carrying a reusable water bottle is recommended.
- 1Lightweight clothing: Breathable fabrics like linen or cotton for warm days and evenings.
- 2Swimsuit(s): Essential for enjoying the beaches, coves, and hotel pools along the coast.
- 3Comfortable walking shoes: For exploring charming cobblestone streets and coastal paths (sandals or espadrilles are also good for casual wear).
- 4Sun hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen: The Mediterranean sun is strong and protective gear is a must.
- 5Reusable water bottle: To stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste while exploring.
- 6Light jacket or cardigan/scarf: For cooler evenings, especially by the sea, or in air-conditioned interiors.
- 7Smart casual outfit: For dining in nicer restaurants, visiting casinos, or enjoying evenings out in glamorous towns like Cannes or Monaco.
- 8Travel adapter (Type E/F): For charging all your electronic devices (France uses C and E/F sockets).
- 9Beach towel or sarong: Many public beaches require bringing your own, and it can double as a wrap.
- 10Small daypack or stylish tote bag: For daily excursions, carrying essentials, and shopping at markets.
Flights and Accommodation
Book 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak season (May-August) or during major events (e.g., Cannes Film Festival, Monaco Grand Prix), as availability dwindles and prices escalate quickly.
Car Rental (if desired)
Book several weeks ahead for better rates and availability, particularly if you require an automatic car or specific model. Picking up at Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) is a common option.
Popular Museum/Villa Tickets
For attractions like Musée Matisse, Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, or the Exotic Garden of Èze, book online a few days to a week in advance to secure timed entry and avoid long queues.
High-Demand Restaurant Reservations
For popular or Michelin-starred restaurants, book 2-4 weeks ahead, especially for weekend evenings. Use apps like TheFork or call the restaurant directly.
Boat Tours/Excursions
If planning a trip to the Lérins Islands, a coastal cruise, or a snorkeling tour, book at least a week in advance, particularly for sunset tours or during high season to ensure availability.
Travel Insurance
Arrange before departure to cover unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, or travel delays.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo app or website
📍 Orange stores, Relay stores at airports and train stations
📍 Online booking with delivery to your hotel or airport
Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Many public areas also offer free WiFi hotspots, but the connection may be unreliable. Check for WiFi signs or ask staff for the password.
Useful Apps
Consider purchasing a SIM card or eSIM upon arrival for reliable internet access. Download offline maps and translation packs before your trip. Be aware of roaming charges if using your home country's SIM card. Test the WiFi connection before relying on it for important tasks. Power banks are useful for keeping your devices charged on the go.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two round pins (Europlug)
Two round pins + round ground hole
230V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
Service included (service compris); round up for good service
Round up to nearest €1–2
€1–2 per bag
Service is legally included in all restaurant bills. Rounding up is a nice gesture.
Safety & Travel Advisories
The French Riviera is generally safe for tourists. Be aware of petty theft, especially in crowded areas.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
17
15
18
112 for European emergency number
Payments
Cash useful at markets and small cafés
Widely accepted (Visa/Mastercard)
Very common
Chip and PIN is standard. American Express less widely accepted.
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Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices. Summer is vibrant but crowded and expensive, while winter is mild but some attractions may have reduced hours.
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