I spent my birthday exploring the dreamiest cities in the South of France—and my boyfriend nailed the Perfect South of France Itinerary. From the beaches of Nice to the luxury of Monaco, the gardens of Eze, the romance of Antibes, and the colorful charm of Menton, this region has it all.
The best part? The food, the vibe, the energy—pure magic.
Ladies, pack your hottest bikinis and chicest dresses. Gents, bring the fits. You’re vacationing in one of the most stylish places in the world.
Steal my 1-week South of France itinerary for a stress-free, unforgettable trip.
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Essential Travel Tips
Car Rental
Renting a car is the best way to explore the South of France at your own pace. Pick up from major airports like Nice Côte d’Azur or train stations like Nice Ville. Top rental companies include Hertz, Europcar, Avis, and Sixt. For better deals, check platforms like Booking.com or Rentalcars.com.
Packing Essentials
Pack comfy shoes, swimwear/cover-up, beach bag, sunglasses, water bottle, sunscreen, crossbody bag, portable charger, euro plug adapter, pain meds, and a camera for photos.
Best Time to Visit South of France
- April to June or September to October – Warm weather, fewer crowds
- July & August – Hotter days, more events, but also more tourists
💡 I went in August—yes, it was crowded, but still 100% worth it!
Local Events
🍋 Menton Lemon Festival | Feb 15 – Mar 2, 2025
Colorful citrus floats, parades & fun in Menton
🏎 Monaco Grand Prix | May 22 – 25, 2025
Iconic Formula 1 racing in glamorous Monte Carlo
Day 1-2: Nice
I call Nice the Miami of France 🙂
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Hotel Negresco – Iconic pink dome, beachfront, royal charm, art-filled.
- Budget: Hôtel Byakko Nice – Clean, central, great reviews, cozy patio.
- Views: Le Méridien Nice – Rooftop pool, panoramic sea views, prime location.
What to Do:
Relax at a Beach Club
Splurge on a sunbed at popular beach clubs like Le Galet, Blue Beach, or Plage Beau Rivage. Expect:
- Prices up to €50/day
- Beach access
- On-site bars & restaurants
Stroll Along the Promenade
Take a scenic 30+ min walk along the coast. Great for:
- People-watching
- Sunset views
- Photos & hidden cafés
🌙 Even better at night when it cools down and lights sparkle.
Castle Hill
Want the best view of Nice? Castle Hill is your spot.
The 15–20 minute uphill walk leads to a panoramic lookout, plus gardens, historic ruins, and even a small waterfall. It’s perfect early in the morning or close to sunset—especially during hot summer months.
Strolling Along Old Nice For Shopping & Food
After our hike, we headed to nearby Vieux (Old) Nice. Instead of backtracking, we took a right path with small viewpoints and stairs leading down to the charming village. It’s a peaceful way to explore—wander the historic streets, snap photos of pastel homes, and visit the vibrant flower market at Cours Saleya.
Best Photo Ops in Old Town
Though every corner in Old Town is picture-worthy, here are a few cute spots, with Google Maps links to the best photo locations below
Picture 1: Google Maps Link ; Picture 2: Google Maps Link ; Picture 3: Google Maps Link
Coco Beach
Coco Beach in Nice is a hidden gem & my main highlight of my time in Nice. We took about a 20 minute bike route from central Nice, but you can also drive or take a taxi, with street parking available. The beach offers crystal-clear water, calm waves, and a great spot to swim and relax. It’s not crowded, making it perfect for a quieter beach day.
Where to Eat:
Old Town – Sini & Jiji: For a quick bite, I highly recommend Sini & Jiji for some of the best pizza slices I’ve ever had. They have small outdoor tables where you can sit and enjoy your meal. For an Italian dinner, check out La Voglia or La Favola.
Hotel Negresco’s Restaurant The perfect restaurant if you’re on a baecation with your partner, and are opting for a more romantic vibe. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was perfect. We chose to sit outside on the patio, but dining indoors is equally amazing, with its beautiful interior design.
Le Méridien’s Rooftop Restaurant: You don’t need to be a guest at the hotel to enjoy the panoramic views Le Méridien offers. Why not make the most of it and have dinner while you’re there? I recommend booking a reservation for sunset. While the food isn’t particularly remarkable, it’s the perfect spot to dress your best, dine with a loved one, and take in the views.
Peixes: This top-rated seafood spot in Nice has 2,000+ glowing reviews. Though I didn’t visit, the photos and menu—ceviche, clams, oysters, seafood linguine—look amazing. Definitely worth trying!
Day 3: Antibes
Antibes is also a great option for a place to stay, in addition to Nice.
Where to Stay:
Budget-Friendly: Hôtel de l’Étoile
Friendly staff, spacious rooms, great location near train station and beach, parking available, 2,000+ positive reviews.
Highly Rated: Hôtel La Villa Cap d’Antibes
Boutique hotel near Salis Beach, serene garden, outdoor pool, personalized service, 600+ positive reviews.
High-End Beachfront: Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel
5-star luxury with private beach access, sea views, gourmet restaurant, close to Plage de la Garoupe.
What to Do:
Bay Of Billionaires
One of the highlights of my France trip! The Bay of Billionaires is surrounded by stunning billion-dollar homes. We took a taxi to avoid parking hassles, then walked down a path lined with high fences (with small glimpses of the mansions) leading to the bay.
You’ll know you’re there when you spot an abandoned sailboat on the shore. The water is crystal clear but rocky, so swimming is best for those experienced—be prepared to waddle through stones before reaching the deeper, calmer areas.
For thrill-seekers, there’s a second access point with cliffs for jumping or a ladder for easier water entry. Simply hike up from the main bay and follow the path to reach it. Just note that this area is only for strong swimmers due to occasional rough waves.
Antibes Promenade
Walking along the promenade is a must after a dip in the Bay of Billionaires. About a 15 minute drive from the bay, also stop by Port Vauban, Europe’s largest marina, to see all the impressive boats. Along the promenade, you’ll see colorful homes, unique statues, and even couples dining on charming Romeo and Juliet-style balconies.
Along the promenade, they even have a nearby rocky beach called Plage De La Gravette to take a dip in or tan.
Old Town Antibes
Don’t miss a sunset stroll through Old Town Antibes—it felt like a scene from a romantic movie. Browse boutique shops, jewelry stands, and dessert spots. You can also check out the Picasso Museum, the Provencal Market, and take in views of Port Vauban and its yachts.
Plage de la Garoupe
Plage de la Garoupe is a peaceful beach about 10 minutes from Antibes Port. Best reached by car or taxi, it has clear water, soft sand, and some rocks. I didn’t visit myself, but a local recommended it as a relaxing spot.
Where to Eat:
Angelo’s: A local favorite serving delicious Italian cuisine. We tried the truffle linguine and octopus with squid mashed potatoes, both were very good. The street patio was the perfect place to enjoy our meal.
Restaurant Chez Mô (Albert 1er) et Poissonnerie: For my seafood lovers, I highly recommend this restaurant. Just check out the Google reviews and pictures as they speak for themselves.
Marché Provençal: I don’t know about you, but I love nothing more than walking through food markets in Europe, where the fruit is so colorful, and they have only the best cheese, spices, and vegetables.
Day 4-5: Monaco
After checking out of our hotel in Nice, we hopped on a train to Monte Carlo, Monaco. Fun fact: Monaco is its own tiny country within France—so small you can drive across it in just 20 minutes! Known for its luxury, casinos, and the famous Formula 1 Grand Prix, Monte Carlo also offers stunning views, upscale shopping, and plenty of charm packed into a small space.
Where to Stay:
- Fairmont Monte Carlo – Luxury hotel by the F1 hairpin turn with Nobu, Nikki Beach, and sea-view rooms.
- Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo – Iconic 5-star stay next to the casino, featuring Michelin dining and beach access.
- Novotel Monte Carlo – Affordable, modern hotel near the station with a pool, gym, and garden terrace.
What to Do:
Fairmont Hairpin Curve
Right in front of the Fairmont Monte Carlo is the iconic Grand Prix hairpin turn—one of the race’s most exciting spots. You’ll see luxury cars and lots of photo ops. For a better view, climb the beige staircase by the Casino or the one on the opposite side.
Nikki Beach Restaurant & Beach Club
If you’re a beach club lover, you’ve probably heard of Nikki Beach. I first experienced it in Miami and loved the food, vibe, and energy—so I had to check out the one at the Fairmont Monte Carlo.
Hotel guests get free pool access, while non-guests can book a daybed for €50–€75. Don’t want to swim? Just stop by the restaurant or bar—no reservation needed.
After taking a dip in the pool and tanning on the daybeds, we snacked on some fries, guac & chips and had a cocktail and it was perfect.
Plagu Du Larvotto
Just a 20-minute walk from the hairpin turn, this public beach is great for a laid-back afternoon. It’s lined with shops and restaurants, and while access is free, you can rent a lounge chair if you want extra comfort. Bring a towel, floaty, and water shoes—the beach is sandy with some pebbles. Avoid bringing valuables since it’s a public spot.
Casino de Monte-Carlo
One of the world’s most iconic casinos, the Monte Carlo Casino is known for its elegance and Hollywood fame—featured in films like Casino Royale and GoldenEye. Outside, you’ll find crowds gathered to admire the luxury cars and the glamorous vibe. Inside, expect grand chandeliers, opulent decor, and high-stakes gaming rooms frequented by billionaires and celebs.
Entry costs about €17, which gives you access to the gaming rooms, and if you’re looking to take in the full experience, dress your best—you’ll definitely want to look the part!
Garden in Front of Casino
Walking through Les Jardins du Casino, I was struck by how peaceful it was. The greenery and fountains made for such a nice contrast to the excitement of the casino. It felt like the perfect spot to pause and take a few photos.
Night Stroll on Boulevard du Larvotto
For the perfect Monte Carlo backdrop, take a nighttime stroll along Boulevard du Larvotto. The city lights reflecting off the high-rises and mountains create a stunning view. Bonus: you’ll spot billion-dollar yachts lined up along the marina—pure luxury vibes.
Bonus Tip: Though I didn’t visit myself, I’ve heard the Tête de Chien offers stunning panoramic views of Monaco, the harbor, and coastline from high above. Just a heads-up—the hike can be tough and take 2–3 hours, so be prepared!
Where to Eat:
Amů: I had the best experience at AMU for my birthday, located in the Fairmont Monte Carlo. Not only did they have a cute flower backdrop that was perfect for my birthday pictures, but they also served some of the best food I’ve ever had with ocean views in front of you! I ordered the Mezzes, which included pita with an assortment of dips, and they were all divine. We also had the ceviche and prawn linguine—10/10! I miss it. Please go, and thank me later!
Caffè Milano, La Note Bleue, and Buddha Bar are local and tourist favorites, offering great dining experiences with top reviews. These spots should definitely be on your list of restaurants to check out when in Monaco.
Day 6: Èze
Eze is a great day trip from Monaco, but it’s so beautiful that I can see why someone would want to stay longer. Check the map widget below for the ideal stay in Eze based on location and price.
What to Do:
If you’ve rented a car in Nice, driving from Monaco to Eze takes about 15 minutes without traffic—up to 30 minutes during busy times. The route is very scenic. I recommend avoiding Uber or taxis, as fares can be pricey (around €40), especially in peak season.
Vieux(Old) Eze Village
Eze Village is where I would imagine Romeo & Juliet to live, it’s so enchanting & cute. This medieval hilltop village is perched high above the coast, filled with stunning stone buildings and greenery draping down from the rocks, with tall, bush-shaped trees, pink flowers, and cacti.
You’ll find boutique clothing shops, perfumeries, galleries, restaurants, and a lovely garden to explore.
You can walk through the entire village in about 20-30 minutes, so it’s quite small. The village is also free to explore.
Jardin Exotique
Don’t miss the Jardin Exotique at Eze’s highest point. For around €6, you’ll see exotic plants and enjoy stunning views of the coast, mansions, and Monaco—perfect for photos.
Le Chevre d’Or Viewpoint Terrace
Le Chevre d’Or is a luxury hotel in Eze with a beautiful terrace offering another great viewpoint of the French Riviera. It’s a perfect pit stop if you’re looking to take in the views—while I’m not certain about the full menu, I did see people enjoying coffee and snacks.
Perfume Workshop
Although it didn’t make it onto my itinerary, I’ve heard that visiting the Fragonard Perfume Factory in Eze is a must if your into fragrance. You can create your own custom scent and learn about the art of perfumery.
Where to Eat:
We headed back to Monaco for dinner, but if you’re looking for great food with amazing views in Eze, check out these highly rated restaurants:
- Le Nid d’Aigle
- Château Eza
- Anjuna Beach
Day 7: Menton
Menton, known as the “Pearl of France,” is a charming, colorful coastal town just a short drive from Monaco. With its relaxed yet sophisticated vibe, we spent half a day exploring before returning to Monaco to check out.
What to Do:
Menton Public Beach
This charming, picture-perfect beach is perfect for relaxing with a floaty while snapping stunning photos of the colorful village from the water. Nearby restaurants and shops make it easy to grab a drink or bite, and outdoor showers are available to rinse off after swimming.
I put my waterproof phone case on and brought my phone in the water with the help of my floaty to capture this picture 🙂
Walk Through the Village
First, head to the famous yellow Escaliers in Menton, which take you up to the Basilica of Saint-Michel. I recommend doing this first then beach after as you will be sweating after exploring 🙂 As you walk through the village, you’ll notice the narrow streets, vibrant buildings, and more views of the coastline.
I suggest heading up to this viewpoint for a nice view of Menton from above. You can easily find it using this Google Maps link.
Jardin botanique Val Rahmeh-Menton
Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh in Menton is a botanical garden to explore with a variety of exotic plants. Entry is around €3, and it’s best to visit in the spring when the flowers are in full bloom; it’s located just a short walk from the city center.
Bonus Tip: If you’re planning your trip during the Lemon Festival in February, I am jealous. It’s a famous event in Menton that celebrates the town’s lemon harvest with colorful parades and massive citrus displays.
Where to Eat:
I’m recommending these 3 restaurants in Menton:
- La Trattoria
- Le Stanley
- Les Enfants Terribles
