5 day itinerary for French Riviera Excluding Cannes, St Tropez, Nice

Itinerary

The French Riviera is a stunning region with so much to offer beyond the well-trodden paths of Cannes, St. Tropez, and Nice. Let’s dive into a fabulous 5-day itinerary that will let you soak up the sun, culture, and breathtaking scenery of this glamorous coastline!

## Day 1: Explore Antibes

Morning:
Start your adventure in Antibes, a charming town known for its beautiful beaches and historic old town. Begin with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, perhaps enjoying a croissant and a café au lait. Afterward, wander through the narrow streets of the old town, visiting the Picasso Museum housed in the Grimaldi Castle. The views of the Mediterranean from here are simply stunning!

Afternoon:
Head to the Marché Provençal, a vibrant market where you can sample local delicacies and pick up some fresh produce. Grab a picnic lunch and head to the sandy beaches of Plage de la Gravette. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun or swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

Evening:
For dinner, treat yourself to a seafood feast at a waterfront restaurant. Try the local specialty, bouillabaisse, and enjoy the sunset over the harbor.

## Day 2: Discover Villefranche-sur-Mer and Eze

Morning:
After breakfast, take a short train ride to Villefranche-sur-Mer, a picturesque village with a stunning bay. Stroll along the waterfront promenade and explore the colorful buildings. Don’t miss the Chapelle Saint-Pierre, adorned with murals by Jean Cocteau.

Afternoon:
Next, make your way to Eze, a medieval village perched high on a hill. You can either hike up the Nietzsche Path for breathtaking views or take a bus. Once there, explore the narrow streets and visit the exotic garden at the top for panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy lunch at a café with a view.

Evening:
Head back down to Villefranche-sur-Mer for dinner. Enjoy a meal at a cozy bistro, and if you’re up for it, take a stroll along the beach under the stars.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Monaco

Morning:
Take a train to Monaco, the glamorous city-state known for its casinos and luxury. Start your day with a visit to the Prince’s Palace. If you time it right, you can catch the changing of the guard ceremony.

Afternoon:
After exploring the palace, head to the Oceanographic Museum, which is a marvel in itself. For lunch, try one of the many eateries in the area, perhaps sampling some local dishes. Afterward, take a stroll through the beautiful gardens or visit the famous Monte Carlo Casino (even if you don’t gamble, the architecture is worth seeing!).

Evening:
For dinner, indulge in a meal at one of Monaco’s upscale restaurants. If you’re feeling lucky, you can try your hand at the casino afterward or simply enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

## Day 4: Visit Menton and Cap Martin

Morning:
Travel to Menton, known as the “Pearl of France.” Start your day with a visit to the beautiful gardens, like the Jardin Serre de la Madone. The lush greenery and exotic plants are a feast for the eyes!

Afternoon:
Stroll through the old town, where you can admire the colorful buildings and visit the Basilica of Saint Michael. For lunch, try some local lemon-infused dishes, as Menton is famous for its lemons. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the beach or visit the nearby Cap Martin for stunning coastal views.

Evening:
Head back to Menton for dinner. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, perhaps sampling some fresh seafood or a traditional ratatouille. Don’t forget to try a lemon tart for dessert!

## Day 5: Grasse and Gourdon

Morning:
On your final day, take a trip to Grasse, the perfume capital of the world. Start with a visit to one of the perfume factories, like Fragonard, where you can learn about the art of perfume-making and even create your own scent!

Afternoon:
After your fragrant experience, head to the charming hilltop village of Gourdon. The views from here are breathtaking! Explore the quaint streets, visit local artisan shops, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a terrace restaurant overlooking the valley.

Evening:
For your last dinner, return to Grasse or find a spot in Gourdon. Celebrate your trip with a delicious meal, perhaps trying some local wines. Reflect on your adventures in the French Riviera and soak in the beautiful atmosphere one last time.

Tips:

• Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes for walking and a swimsuit for those lovely beaches!
• Consider getting a local transport pass for easy travel between towns.
• Enjoy the local markets and try to sample as much regional cuisine as you can!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable time in the French Riviera! Bon voyage! 🌊✨