The French Riviera is often described as the closest thing to paradise you’ll find in the world. This picturesque group of countries that hug the Mediterranean coastline have inspired painters, artists, celebrities, and people from all walks of life looking to escape the stresses of everyday life. August is the traditional “holiday” time here, but those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy cooler weather will find plenty of reasons to visit the South of France in the so-called “off-season.” From Cannes to Monaco and everywhere in between, here are ten tips for enjoying the best of the French Riviera:
1. Stroll in Style – It’s often said that the best things in life are free. That’s certainly true of the picturesque views you’ll find throughout the region, including along Nice’s iconic Promenade des Anglais – a prime destination for beaches, shopping, and the best the South of France has to offer. Go a little off the beaten path and discover some of the little villages and small towns not often visited by tourists.
2. Be a Star/See a Star – Just because you’re not a Kardashian or an A-list Hollywood celeb doesn’t mean that you can’t party in style. Many French Riviera cities, especially hotspots like Cannes and St-Tropez, have annual festivals and celebrations open to the public. Some of these events such as the Cannes Film Festival draw the elite crowds, if star-gazing is your thing.
3. Try Your Luck – Unlike Vegas, gambling is more refined in the French Riviera. The hotspot for gambling in the Cote D’Azur is Monaco. The Casino de Monte-Carlo is the most well-known of the city’s four casinos, but it’s not the only premier gambling destination in the French Riviera. Cannes and Nice offer gambling facilities nestled inside of luxurious hotels, with breathtaking views serving as an unintended distraction.
4. Take a Deep Breath – There are plenty of delightful smells to be enjoyed in the South of France, especially in areas like Grasse and Eze – home to some of the world’s best-known perfume factories. Nestled in Nice is Fragonard, a famed 18th century perfume factory. Many of these factories offer tours that include free samples. Don’t forget to visit some of the area’s perfume museums for a quick lesson in the region’s fragrant history.
5. Brush Up on Your Art – It should come as no surprise that many famed artists have been drawn to the French Riviera over the years. Bonnard, Picasso, Braque, Marquet, and Renoir are just of the iconic artists with Cote D’Azur ties. Antibes, for example, is home to a museum honoring Picasso by displaying his works. Nice offers a Matisse museum with an impressive collection that the artist and his heirs donated to the city.