Picture yourself strolling down cobblestone streets with the scent of lavender in the air, vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, and the Mediterranean sun kissing your skin. Welcome to the South of France, a region that’s more than just one of the best vacations in Europe; it’s a place where the sheer essence of joie de vivre comes to life. Marked by rocky cliffs and seaside villages along the glistening blue waters of the French Riviera, the glamorous South of France cities grant a magical setting to explore the coast and enjoy life’s luxuries.

From high-end beach clubs and thrilling ocean excursions to phenomenal shopping districts and impeccably-designed casinos, the Côte d’Azur has everything you need for an unforgettable vacation in France. Plus, with the country’s efficient public train system, traveling between South of France cities is a breeze. With a little advance planning, it’s easy to fit a few destinations into one trip. 

To discover how to plan a luxury beach vacation in France, you’ve come to the right spot! It’s time to unveil which South of France cities are a must-see for the perfect French Riviera itinerary.

The 5 Best South of France Cities for a Glamorous Getaway

Whether you’re a lover of fine wines, a history buff, a sun-soaker, or a romantic at heart, the French Riviera beckons with open arms. Grab your chicest sunglasses, raise a glass of rosé, and let’s embark on a tour of the must-visit South of France cities for a luxurious Côte d’Azur vacation!

Cannes

Beginning with a personal favorite, Cannes is one of the South of France cities you definitely don’t want to miss! It’s known worldwide for its iconic film festival, an annual tradition in the city since 1946. However, this seaside haven is so much more than just red carpets and movie stars.

To experience the chic luxury and stunning ambiance that make the French Riviera the pinnacle of upscale vacations in Europe, Cannes is your ideal destination. Spend your afternoons strolling along the Promenade de la Croisette, where luxury boutiques and palm trees line the beachfront. As decorative red lights illuminate the pathway when the sun sets, step into one of the fabulous beach lounges for an evening cocktail or dance until dawn at the night clubs.

On top of everything Cannes has to offer itself, its central location makes it one of the best South of France cities to choose as a base to explore the region. With a major train station in town, you can explore destinations all over the Côte d’Azur with ease. You can even zip up to Paris in just two hours with a high-speed ticket!

When you’re planning a vacation in the South of France, a trip to Cannes never disappoints.

Saint-Tropez

Next, let’s dive head first into the center glitz and glamor South of France cities are famous for by venturing over to Saint-Tropez. The mere mention of this legendary seaside village conjures images of luxury yachts, sun-kissed beaches, and a vibrant jet-set scene. Offering a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern luxury, it draws globe trotters to the French Riviera from all over the world.

Made famous by the one and only Brigitte Bardot during her filming of “And God Created Women”, the luxe enclave will steal your heart with its posh atmosphere and coastal charm. Stroll through the picturesque Old Town with its cobblestone streets and pastel-hued buildings. There’s a fabulous shopping scene, plenty of places to drink and dine, and posh beach clubs galore.

When you’re visiting Saint-Tropez on a vacation in France, the ocean tides wash all your worries away. The Mediterranean just seems to sparkle a little brighter here, and every sunset feels like a celebration.

Know Before You Go: Saint-Tropez doesn’t have train stations, so be sure to rent a car or arrive by boat via a ferry or on a guided tour if you’re planning to visit.

Nice

As one of the most popular destinations in the Côte d’Azur, Nice is a natural choice for a vacation in the South of France. With azure waters meeting pebbly beaches and palm-lined boulevards, the bustling seaside city entices travelers with its picturesque setting and vibrant ambiance. It hosts the French Riviera’s main airport and a major train station too, making it a prime stop for vacations in Europe with multiple destinations.

Take a leisurely stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, where the sea sparkles on one side and Belle Époque buildings stand proud on the other. The Old Town, or Vieux Nice, is a maze of narrow streets bursting with Provençal flavors and fragrances. There’s also a lively social atmosphere with lots of trendy eateries and great cocktail lounges for nights out.

Antibes

The charming coastal town of Antibes has long been a haven for artists and dreamers. Its cobblestone streets and medieval walls harbor a rich artistic heritage, thanks in part to its most famous resident, Pablo Picasso. It’s also home to Billionaire’s Row, where some of the biggest superyachts in Europe can be found.

Visit the Picasso Museum in its historic château, and don’t miss a walk along the ancient ramparts for breathtaking views! Finish the day with a sunset boat ride to the nearby islands while sipping on local rosé. After, enjoy a scrumptious meal at one of its marvelous waterfront restaurants!

Antibes is where art and history converge to offer the riviera lifestyle at its finest.

Èze

Perched like a bird’s nest on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, Èze stands as a captivating testament to the charm of South of France cities. Marrying history and natural beauty, the medieval village appears as though it was plucked from the pages of a fairytale. If you’re planning a vacation in France, Èze offers an enchanting escape with its cobbled streets, ancient stone architecture, and panoramic views.

Wandering through its narrow, labyrinthine streets, dotted with stone houses and artisan shops, will leave you breathless. At the very top, you’ll discover the Jardin Exotique. The stunning cactus and succulent garden with panoramic views adds a touch of exotic allure to this Côte d’Azur gem.

Èze promises an immersive yet relaxing experience in a place where time seems to stand still. For those seeking a perfect blend of culture, romance, and seaside splendor, it’s one of the best places to visit in France.

Beyond the Border: Monte Carlo

Finally, a quick hop over the border brings us to Monte Carlo: the crown jewel of Monaco. While technically not one of the South of France cities, it’s a must-visit destination in the Côte d’Azur. The seaside playground boasts world-class casinos, luxury boutiques, and a stunning harbor filled with superyachts. There’s also lush gardens, delicious restaurants, and exciting attractions to visit.

Explore the historic Casino de Monte-Carlo, live out your race car dreams with a drive along the F1 circuit, and stroll through the beautiful Jardin Exotique. With a public elevator system and free city bikes available to rent, the pedestrian-friendly community makes it easy to travel around the city.

Know Before You Go: Unlike most places in France, Monaco doesn’t use ride share services like Uber. To visit during your vacation in the South of France, the best ways are by booking a day trip, renting a car, or using a taxi service. You can also take the train, but be mindful of train times. Most trains stop running before midnight, so you may need a car service back if you’ll be out late.

Read more: Casinos, Cars, and Caviar: Why Travelers Love Visiting Monaco

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