One of the most glamorous and picturesque regions in the world, the Côte d’Azur delivers exactly what its name promises: azure waters, stunning coastlines, and a dreamy blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, ensuring warm summers and mild winters, it’s an ideal year-round destination.

Though I’d been to the Côte d’Azur a few years ago for a language course, this time I came to visit a friend in Nice and was ready to revisit old favorites and explore new corners of the French Riviera. Little did I know, thanks to a canceled return flight, I’d even get one bonus night in Nice, which I however spent at an airport hotel.

Day I

Start your trip in Nice, the capital of and also gateway to the Côte d’Azur. The city is known for its stunning seaside promenade, Italian-influenced architecture, and rich cultural scene. Grab breakfast at Paper Plane. Fresh, organic, and effortlessly cool, this café is the perfect place to fuel up before a stroll through Place Masséna, Nice’s elegant centerpiece. Walk across the signature checkerboard square framed by bright red façades and fountains.

From there, wander the Old Town (Vieux Nice) and get lost in the maze of narrow alleys, colorful buildings, local markets, and tucked-away boutiques. Treat yourself at Fenocchino, the city’s most iconic ice cream shop, where you can choose from flavors like lavender, thyme, or classic chocolate and pistachio.

After some gelato it will also be an easy game to hike up to Château de Nice. Climb the stairs or take the elevator to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the Baie des Anges, Old Town, and the city’s red-tiled rooftops. End the day with a delicious dinner at La Bistrot de Jeff, a cozy, modern French bistro serving traditional cuisine with a fresh twist.

Day II

The Côte d’Azur is made for day trips and a well-connected coastal train line makes it easy to visit the region’s best spots even without a car.

Catch a morning train to Antibes, a charming coastal town between Nice and Cannes. Wander the Old Town, filled with stone lanes and Provencal charm, visit the Marché Provençal to sample local produce and grab lunch outdoors at a sun-soaked café in the old quarter, for example at the creperie Les Filles du Micocoulier or the Mediterranean restaurant Le Zinc. After lunch, visit the nearby Picasso Museum, housed in the old Château Grimaldi and stop at Port Vauban Antibes, one of the largest marinas in Europe.

From Antibes, continue westward to Cannes, mostly know as the city of film festivals. Arriving by train, you’ll get off right in the heart of the city. Grab at coffee to go at Good Mate Coffee and make your way down to the famous Boulevard de la Croisette. Walk along the palm-lined seaside promenade to the Palais des Festivals. Snap a photo on the red carpet stairs of the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, home of the Cannes Film Festival.

Stroll the Old Port where also the Casino Barrière Cannes Le Croisette is located and continue walking to the nearby grand Hôtel de Ville. Before heading back to Nice, detour to Marché Forville and grab dinner at one of the many restaurants around the market such as Chez Vincent et Nicolas.

Day III

On the final day, it’s time for another trip beyond Nice. Take bus 600 leaving from Cannes (highly recommended for the views alone) to the principality of Monaco. A place where money can probably buy you everything, the tiny yet extravagant place is also packed with things to explore. Start at the world-famous Casino de Monte-Carlo. Walk through the plaza and admire the legendary casino and the opulent Hôtel de Paris. Stop for a pastry and espresso at the lively Café de Paris, while watching the big cars roll by.

Stroll to the harbor and marvel some of the most luxurious yachts at the marina. From there, head uphill to the Palais des Princes de Monaco. Catch the changing of the guard (if timed right) and take in views of both sides of the principality.

Walk through the Old Town, passing the Cathédrale de Monaco on your way to the Jardins de Saint-Martin overlooking the sea. If your time allows it, the Oceanographic Museum, a stunning clifftop aquarium and museum, is well worth a visit as well.

Got more time?

If you’re planning a longer stay or want to swap out a day trip, exploring any of these three incredible detours is definitely a must. Head to Saint-Paul de Vence, a charming medieval hilltop village known for its art galleries, stone streets, and panoramic views. Visit Grasse, the perfume capital of France, and create your own scent at the renowned perfumery Fragonard. Or explore some more places along the Riviera. Head to Cap Ferrat & Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild for a visit at the lavish pink villa and its nine themed gardens, perched on a peninsula with scenic views.