The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is a sun-soaked haven perfect for a summer escape. With its mix of striking coastlines, glamorous ambience, and charming towns, this region offers something for everyone, from families to couples. From strolling the Promenade des Anglais in Nice to exploring the luxury of Monaco, here are six unmissable destinations to add to your next summer adventure.
Nice
Start your Riviera experience in Nice, a popular city with a blend of cultural treasures and seaside charm. Walk along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, lined with palm trees and grand architecture, or explore the charming Old Town (Vieux Nice) with its bustling markets and colourful facades. Don’t miss Castle Hill for stunning views of the Baie des Anges and the city below.
Cannes
Known worldwide for its renowned film festival every May, Cannes exudes glamour. Channel your favourite Hollywood icons and spend your time strolling along La Croisette, the city’s fashionable waterfront lined with upscale boutiques and luxury hotels, or relaxing on one of its sandy beaches. For a more tranquil experience away from the crowds, take a short ferry ride to the nearby Lérins Islands, where you can explore nature and history with a view of Cannes from afar.
Monaco
Glamorous and compact, Monaco packs plenty into its famous two-square-kilometre principality. Ideal for a day trip from Nice or one of the nearby towns, make sure you visit the legendary Monte Carlo Casino or enjoy a walk around Port Hercule, where superyachts glimmer under the summer sun. The Prince’s Palace and its changing of the guard ceremony are must-sees too. Sustainability-minded travellers will also love the Oceanographic Museum's dedication to marine conservation.
Saint-Tropez
Once a quaint fishing village, Saint-Tropez is now synonymous with chic summer holidays. Sip cocktails at a beach club on Pampelonne Beach or explore the picturesque Old Port, adorned with colourful fishing boats. Art lovers can admire pieces at the Musée de l’Annonciade, celebrating Saint-Tropez’s ties to modern art movements like Fauvism.
Antibes
For a feel of laid-back Riviera life, Antibes delivers with its markets, marina, and artisanal charm. Wander through Old Town, stop by the Provencal Market, or visit the historic Fort Carré overlooking the Mediterranean. Art enthusiasts will enjoy the Picasso Museum, set in a castle where the artist himself worked in 1946.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
This peninsula is a slice of tranquillity amidst the bustling Riviera. Known for its luxurious villas, you can tour the exquisite Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, complete with stunning gardens. For nature lovers, the coastal walking trails offer unparalleled views of the turquoise waters and hidden coves that are worth discovering.
To book your French Riviera adventure, contact your Travel Counsellor today.
If you're dreaming of your next tropical escape, Saint Lucia shines as a truly remarkable Caribbean destination. With stunning landscapes, unique and welcoming culture, and a wide variety of experiences available, this island offers far more than spectacular beaches.
Made up of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman, each of the Cayman Islands brings something slightly different, from the busier feel of Seven Mile Beach to the quieter, more untouched corners of the smaller islands. Alongside the scenery, food plays a big part in the experience, with the islands widely known as the ‘Culinary Capital of the Caribbean’. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or longer, time here tends to revolve around the sea during the day and good food in the evening.
You don’t have to go far to enjoy a beautiful escape, with a UK break offering a slower pace and a chance to truly connect with the beauty on your doorstep. Whether it’s waking up to views of the Lake District fells, staying by a quiet Highland loch, spending time in the Cotswolds countryside, or heading to the North Wales coast, these villa stays let you fully immerse yourself in the moment and make the most of what’s around you.
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