I was blessed to spend my birthday exploring some of the most beautiful cities in the South of France. My boyfriend planned the perfect itinerary, and it’s way too good not to share. South of France is the perfect place to visit if you want the beaches of Nice, luxury of Monaco, gardens of Eze, romance of Antibes, and witness the colorful charm of Menton.
And the best part? The food, the energy, the ambiance—it’s everything you dream a vacation should be. Ladies, this vacation is the time to bring out your sexiest bikini and your most flattering dress. Gentlemen, pack your sharpest looks because you’ll be vacationing in some of the most stunning and stylish cities in the world.
Steal my 1 week itinerary and enjoy a stress-free vacation without worrying about where to go, what to do, or where to eat.
Table of Contents
Essential Travel Tips
Car Rental
Renting a car makes it easy to explore multiple cities at your own pace. You can rent a car from major airports like Nice Côte d'Azur, train stations like Nice Ville, or city centers like Cannes and Marseille. Popular rental agencies include Hertz, Europcar, Avis, and Sixt, or you can use online platforms like booking.com, Rentalcars.com or for better rates and availability.
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.
🥿 Comfortable Shoes | 🕶 Sunglasses | 👜 Beach Bag |
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💧 Water Bottle | 🌞Sunscreen | 🔌 Euro Adapter |
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Best Time to Visit South of France
The best time to visit the South of France is in spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) for warm weather and fewer crowds. July and August offer hotter weather and vibrant events, but also larger crowds and higher prices. I personally went in August & I can attest to the hot weather and bigger crowds but it was still a great time.
Local Events
Check for festivals like the Menton Lemon Festival (February 15 – March 2, 2025) or the Monaco Grand Prix (May 22 – 25, 2025) for formula one motor racing.
Day 1-2: Nice
I call Nice the Miami of France :)
Where to Stay for 2 days in Nice:
Beachfront High-End: Hotel Negresco – For a taste of royalty, visit Hotel Negresco. Built in 1913, its iconic pink dome and opulent design transport you to a royal-era palace. Highlights include a private art collection with over 2,000 pieces, a rich blend of luxury and history, and a prime location on the Promenade des Anglais.
Budget Friendly: Hôtel Byakko Nice A perfect budget-friendly option with over 4,600 good reviews, Hôtel Byakko Nice is praised for its great location, clean rooms, good breakfast and outdoor patio. Ideal for a short stay.
Best Panoramic Views: Le Méridien Nice – With a prime location on the Promenade, Le Méridien Nice is perfect for those seeking sea views, spacious rooms, and easy access to a rooftop pool and restaurant offering panoramic views.
What to Do:
Relax at a Beach Club
If you're looking to splurge and relax on the beach all day, rent a beach chair at one of the many beach clubs along the water. Prices vary, but you’ll have access to comfort and convenience, plus delicious cocktails and appetizers from onsite restaurants. Popular spots include Le Galet, La Vela, Plage Beau Rivage, Blue Beach, and Bocca Mar. Expect to pay up to € 50 per person for the entire day.
Stroll Along the Promenade
Take 30 minutes or more to stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais to experience Nice at a slower pace. This will allow you to discover local eateries, people-watch, and take multiple stops for pictures along the way. For a peaceful walk, be sure to do this at night when the weather is cooler and the night lights makes everything 10 times prettier.
Castle Hill
Castle Hill Viewpoint offers the best panoramic views of Nice. The hike up takes about 15-20 minutes, and once you're at the top, there are different areas to explore such as gardens, historic ruins, and a waterfall. Since we went in August, it was a bit too hot for all the discovering so we went on to find some food in the local village.
Strolling Along Vieux Nice For Shopping & Food
After our hike, we were a bit hungry, so we headed to the nearby Vieux(Old) Nice town. Instead of retracing our steps from where we came from, we took the path to the right, passing smaller viewpoints and eventually descending some stairs that led us to the beautiful village. It’s a peaceful way to explore the area. Take your time wandering through the historic Old Town, and take pictures of all the cute pastel homes. Also, check out the 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: Â Google Maps Link ; Picture 3 & 4: Google Maps Link
Picture 5: Â Google Maps Link ; Picture 6: Â 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. The rocky surroundings and natural setting add to its charm, and it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Nice away from the busy tourist spots.
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. As a big pizza lover, I was impressed by their amazing toppings—they not only looked great but tasted even better. They have small outdoor tables where you can sit and enjoy your meal. If you’re craving something sweet after, they also serve ice cream. 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 that brings you back in time.
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 is a highly-rated seafood restaurant in Nice. Although I didn’t get the chance to visit myself, the 2,000+ Google reviews and photos of the food speak for themselves; it seems they have every type of seafood available. They serve beautifully presented ceviche, fresh clams and oysters, seafood linguine, and much more. I have a strong feeling this restaurant won’t disappoint.
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 With over 2,000 positive reviews, this hotel is praised for its friendly staff, spacious rooms, and convenient location near the train station and beach. Guests appreciate the nearby parking and helpful service, making it a great budget choice.
Highly Rated: Hôtel La Villa Cap d’Antibes With over 600 positive reviews this charming boutique hotel is nestled near Salis Beach. Guests love the serene garden, outdoor pool, and personalized service, perfect for a quiet retreat near the sea.
High-end Beach Front: Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel – A luxurious stay with private beach access, this 5-star hotel offers direct sea views, a gourmet restaurant, and elegant modern rooms. Located close to Plage de la Garoupe, it’s a top choice for a relaxing and indulgent getaway.
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
Make sure to walk through Old Town Antibes at sunset. This was another highlight of my trip—it felt like I was in a romantic movie. The town has boutique shops, jewelry stands, restaurants, and dessert shops to explore, making it perfect for an evening stroll. You can also explore the Picasso Museum, visit the Provencal Market for local goods, and enjoy a different viewpoint of Port Vauban with its yachts.
Plage de la Garoupe
Plage de la Garoupe is about a 10-minute drive from Antibes Port. The best way to get there is by car or taxi, though there’s limited parking nearby. It’s a more peaceful beach compared to others, with clear water and smooth sand, but there are some rocks in the water. Although I didn't get a chance to visit, we heard from a local that it is a great spot to relax.
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, and you'll be craving fresh oysters and fish. They even have sushi!
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. I highly recommend visiting this market, grabbing some things, and enjoying them at a nearby bench or by the beach.
Day 4-5: Monaco
We wrapped up our time in Nice, checked out of our hotel, and took a train to Monte Carlo, Monaco.It was cool to learn that Monaco is its own separate country inside France and one of the smallest in the world—so small you can drive through the entire state in just 20 minutes. It is famous for its luxury, casinos, and being home to the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Despite its small size, Monte Carlo offers great views, high-end shopping, and a rich history.
Where to Stay:
Fairmont Monte Carlo – One of my favorite stays of all time, Fairmont Monte Carlo is located right by the famous Formula 1 hairpin turn, making it iconic stay during race week, with track-facing rooms. The hotel features top restaurants like Nobu, AMU, and Nikki Beach, two of which offer daytime pool access. With its prime location and luxury amenities, it’s the perfect choice for an unforgettable stay in Monaco.
Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo – An iconic luxury hotel located next to the Monte Carlo Casino. Known for its opulent rooms, Michelin-starred restaurants, including Le Louis XV by Alain Ducasse, and a rooftop wellness spa. Guests also enjoy exclusive access to the private beach at Monte-Carlo Beach Club.
Novotel Monte Carlo – A more affordable choice without compromising comfort, located a short walk from the Monte Carlo Casino and the train station. The hotel features modern rooms, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a garden terrace. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a convenient location and great value in Monaco.
What to Do:
Fairmont Hairpin Curve
Located right in front of the Fairmont Monte Carlo, this is the iconic Grand Prix turn and one of the most exciting parts of the race. It is worth visiting because you’ll see plenty of luxury cars driving by and people stopping to snap photos. For a better shot, head up one of the staircases for an upper view. There’s one on the Casino side (the beige staircase pictured below) and another on the opposite side.
Nikki Beach Restaurant & Beach Club
If you love a good beach club, you’ve probably heard of Nikki Beach. My first experience was in Miami, where the food and ambiance were amazing, so I had to check out the one at the Fairmont Monte Carlo. This beach club offers striking views of the city and ocean, making it a must-visit spot for relaxation and luxury.
Nikki Beach is open daily during the summer, offering hotel guests complimentary access to the pool and lounge beds. Non-guests can visit by booking a day pass, which includes pool access and a daybed for around €50–€75, depending on the season. Alternatively, you can skip the pool and just enjoy the restaurant or bar, which are open to everyone.
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 about a 20-minute walk from the famous hairpin street, you’ll find a long stretch of beach ideal for a relaxing day. The area is lined with restaurants and shops, making it convenient to grab a bite or browse. I recommend bringing your own towel and a floaty to really relax, but avoid bringing valuables as it’s a public beach. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, so water shoes can be helpful, and while it’s free to access, lounge chairs are available for rent.
Casino de Monte-Carlo
The Monaco Casino is one of the most famous casinos in the world, due to its glamorous reputation. Having appeared in James Bond films like Casino Royale and GoldenEye, the outside of the casino is always packed with people.
Billionaires and celebrities come here to show off their luxury cars and indulge in the high-stakes games. When I say luxury, I mean you’ll see everything from $20 million cars parked outside to high-limit gaming rooms. The casino itself is beautiful, with ornate decor and chandeliers that add to its timeless charm.
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 backdrop of Monte Carlo, I recommend strolling along the Boulevard du Larvotto at night before or after your time at the casino. The high-rise buildings against the mountain, all lit up, make for a view to remember. Plus, seeing the billion-dollar yachts on the marina is definitely a plus.
Bonus Tip: I didn’t get to go myself, but I heard that the area where you can see the marina from above is called Tête de Chien (Head of the Dog). It’s a viewpoint located above Monaco, offering a really high vewpoint of the city, harbor, and coastline. Warning this hike is not for the weak, it can take 2-3 hours depending on your pace.
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:
Ideally, if you’ve rented a car from Nice, it’s easy to get to Eze from Monaco. The drive takes about 15 minutes without traffic, but with traffic can be upwards of 30 minutes, however the route is a scenic one. I’d recommend avoiding an Uber/taxi, as it can get quite expensive (around 40EUR) , especially during 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.
Walking through the village feels like being in a fairytale, with narrow, maze-like paths that make you excited to see what’s around the next corner. 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
You can’t visit Eze without exploring the Jardin Exotique. Located at the highest point of the village. Entry costs around €6, and you’ll find a collection of exotic plants, cacti, and succulents. It’s the best spot for photography, with views of the coastline, hillside mansions, and even Monaco from above.
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:
Although we headed back to Monaco for dinner, if you're looking for great food paired with an incredible Eze view, check out these highly rated restaurants in Eze: Château Eza’s Restaurant, Anjuna Beach, and Le Nid d'Aigle.
Day 7: Menton
Menton is a charming colorful coastal town located just a short drive from Monaco, often referred to as the "Pearl of France" because its Frances' prized hidden gem. Menton has a laid-back, yet sophisticated vibe. We spent about half a day here before heading back to Monaco to check out of our hotel.
What to Do:
Menton Public Beach
This beach is so cute and aesthetic. Bring a floaty and capture incredible pictures of the colorful village from the water. There are restaurants and shops near by if you want to grab a drink or a bite to eat. They also have outdoor showers to rinse off the salt when you are done 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: Â 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, and Les Enfants Terribles, based on their great Google reviews, where you can enjoy a variety of dishes from fresh seafood to pasta.
I hope this itinerary helps you in planning your trip to the French Riviera, whether it's finding where to stay, what to do, or where to eat in the beautiful Côte d'Azur.
Wishing you an amazing time exploring all the beauty the South of France has to offer.
Until next time, adios! <3
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