The French Riviera (Côte d'Azur), stretching from Nice to Menton, is the epitome of Mediterranean glamour. Here, exclusive beaches, world-renowned festivals, and perched villages blend with the tradition of luxury hospitality. Staying in a historic hotel or a boutique hotel with a sea view is a charming experience that combines seaside relaxation with access to an elegant nightlife and a first-class art and culinary scene.

Cannes and Nice: The Heart of Glamour

Cannes, with its Croisette and the famous Film Festival, is a symbol of luxury. We recommend a sunset stroll on the Croisette, culminating in a chic aperitif with a view of the bay. Nice, with its Promenade des Anglais and colorful Vieux Nice, offers a more authentic charm. Don't miss the experience of lunch at Trattoria La Nicoise to taste authentic local cuisine.

Art and Culture between the Villages

• Saint-Paul-de-Vence: A medieval village that inspired artists like Chagall and Matisse, a mandatory stop for art lovers. Visit the Fondation Maeght for an extraordinary collection of modern art.
• Èze Village: An eagle's nest that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean and hosts the luxurious Château Eza hotel (a true charming residence).
• Monaco: Not administratively part of the French Riviera, but its natural extension of luxury and jet-set, with its Casino and the Grand Prix.

Starred Gastronomy and Sea Flavors

The Riviera's cuisine is a mix of Provençal flavors and Italian influences (the famous Cuisine Niçoise). The region is renowned for its high concentration of starred restaurants. Restaurants like La Vague d'Or (3 Michelin Stars in Saint-Tropez, just outside the district, but iconic) and Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse à l'Hôtel de Paris (3 Michelin Stars in Monaco) represent the pinnacle of gastronomy. We recommend trying fresh seafood dishes with the rosé wines of Provence.

Top 5 Luxury and Historic Hotels

• Hôtel Le Negresco (Nice): Historic icon with a private art collection and Belle Époque facade.
• Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat): An oasis of peace with an infinity pool and legendary service.
• Hotel La Réserve de Beaulieu (Beaulieu-sur-Mer): Historic elegance and a starred restaurant.
• Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc (Antibes): Symbol of luxury and the global jet-set, a mythical place for exclusive events.
• Hotel Five Seas (Cannes): Modern design and a rooftop pool with city views.

Useful Tips and Beach Resorts

The reference airport is Nice Côte d'Azur (NCE). The French Riviera is well served by regional trains (TER) connecting Nice to Cannes and Menton, but a luxury rental car is recommended for exploring the inland villages. For beach resorts, the private beaches of Pampelonne (Saint-Tropez) and the Croisette beach (Cannes) offer a luxury beach experience. Official sources:

• Nice Tourisme – Nice Tourist Office
• Cannes Destination – Official tourism site for Cannes