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4 Coastal Villages in the South of France
Expanding along the Mediterranean coast, these villages offer alluring seaside settings, bright colour palettes, and ideal proximity to the azure shoreline.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a quaint, coastal village located east of Nice, known for having one of the most beautiful bays on the French Riviera. Its lively old town cascades down a hill to a waterfront quay, filled with restaurant terraces and fishing boats. To see the village in its best light, visit in the morning while exploring its narrow roads and stairways.
If visiting during the summer months, be sure to enjoy Plage des Marinières, a small beach located in the middle of the bay, offering clear waters and views of both the village and Cap Ferrat.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Distinguished by its grand old villas, luxurious yachts in the harbor, and waterfront local cafes and restaurants, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is the perfect destination for a laid-back, yet elegant escape. Made effortless by its proximity to the beaches and harbor, its gentle pace of life, and the golden light that shimmers on the villas and lively façades, the village is ideal for a late afternoon stroll along the Promenade Maurice Rouvier, which connects Saint-Jean to the beach of Beaulieu-sur-Mer.
Menton
Located right by the Italian border, Menton is a laid-back town, known for its bright, warm-toned facades, offering splendid views of the Mediterranean and the snow-capped Alps. The Old Town is split into a lower part with various shops, cafes, and restaurants, and a higher part housing the Basilica of Menton.
For a scenic stroll, walk up the narrow streets to the Boulevard de Garavan viewpoint for an amazing view of the town's rooftops.
Antibes
Between Nice and Cannes lies Antibes, a vibrant coastal town where Pablo Picasso lived and worked, drawing inspiration from its surroundings. The bright and lively old town is mostly flat and easy to walk around, filled with shops, restaurants, artisanal ice cream parlors, and the Provençal Market, offering a wonderful selection of produce and local craftsmanship and serving as a major gathering point for locals. As for its alluring views, walk along the sea atop the city’s old walls to admire the beautiful sunset over the Mediterranean. From there, you can also visit the Picasso Museum, located right by the sea.
Discover the Guide
The French Riviera is home to some of Europe’s most alluring coastal villages, where vibrant colours and a seaside setting captivate travelers seeking a laid-back escape in the South of France.
Learn more about these and many other villages with the 14-day French Riviera Digital Travel Guide, complete with day-by-day itineraries, suggested locations to stay, eat and discover, as well as essential travel tips to consider before your visit.