‘Calm, luxury and voluptuousness’: these words ideally describe this cape located between Nice and Monaco. The old fishing village became a holiday haven in the early 20th century, with the arrival of wealthy foreign families, who built vast estates, like Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Many artists chose to stay there: Jean Cocteau decorated Villa Santo Sospir. A 10 km coastal footpath offers exceptional panoramas. Beaches and creeks are an invitation to relax, while a wide range of water sports make it ideal for sportier stays.

You could spend every day at the beach in Antibes and feel you’ve had a rewarding trip. But make a point of exploring Antibes’ Old Town as well, called by some the cultural heart of the Côte d’Azur. Visit the Musée Picasso for its splendid artwork, sculpture terrace, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Later, enjoy dozens of restaurants, or take a quick ride into Juan-les-Pins for its lively nightlife.

The Principality of Monaco, a small city-state overlooking the pristine blue waters of the Mediterranean, is a place famed for its glamour and wealth. The Palais Princier, former home of Princess Grace and current home of her son, Prince Albert II, is at the top of the cliff-bound medieval Monaco-Ville. More well known is Monte Carlo, a neighborhood soaked in sun, money, and expensive champagne, and home to the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix, the European Poker Tour, and the Monte Carlo Rally.

A postcard-perfect hamlet, the vibrant town of Villefranche-sur-Mer is one of the best destinations on the French Riviera. Azure waters in a sheltered cove are flanked by one of France’s most colorful towns while bougainvillea climbs door frames and balconies. A kaleidoscope of yellow, peach, and pink facades line the paved lanes of Villefranche-sur-Mer as window shutters and doors painted mint green and blue contrast against them. Reminiscent of the hillside villages in Italy’s Liguria region, there’s also plenty that feels distinctly French; the glamour, the exclusivity, and of course the rosé wine.

Cannes is proud of its Provençal, hedonistic and generous character. Each of its districts reveals a trait of its personality. There is the remarkable splendor of the Croisette, with its boutiques and luxury hotels, and the intimate charm of the Suquet, with its steep streets and its testimonies of the past. The conviviality of the Old Port, welcoming sea travelers every day, and the lively bustle of the town center with its shops and terraces are delightful. Cannes is a multi-faceted character that can be visited as you explore it.

A sun-drenched valley could not be called anything other than “lemon country”! Bordered by Italy and at the gates of Monaco, known worldwide for its citrus fruit, Menton is both an artistic pool and a paradise at the water’s edge in the heart of the Côte d’Azur dolce vita.

Your jaw will drop at the gorgeous view of the Mediterranean from Eze, a charming hilltop village on the Cote d’Azur. Its beautiful cobblestone streets and hot-pink bougainvillea are a far cry from the glamour of Cannes or St-Tropez—and for travelers who could care less about celebrities and megayachts, that’s quite appealing. Shoppers will delight in the many local perfumeries and art galleries.

This picturesque village is known for its art galleries, charming streets, and stunning views. Visit the Fondation Maeght, a museum dedicated to modern art, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café.