The French Riviera — 7 Top Travel Tips

The French Riviera (or Cote d’Azur) became famous as a playground for writers like F. Scott Fitzgerald and D.H. Lawrence, while the unique qualities of its light drew world-famous artists like Picasso, Monet and Matisse.

This sun-kissed strip of the Mediterranean coast is still peppered with luxe locations favored by business moguls and movie stars. But if you plan ahead, it’s possible to holiday there without a Hollywood budget.

With that in mind, here are seven top travel tips to prep for a fabulous French Riviera vacay.

1. Language
   There are French phrases in US English, but if you’re not fluent in the Gallic tongue, be aware that the way most Americans pronounce ‘Notre Dame’ won’t go down well with locals. So learn how to wax lyrical like a native by downloading duolingo.com and get key words down pat prior to departure.
2. Accommodation
   For a family base that’s close to the beach and in striking distance from attractions in Antibes and Cannes, Airbnb properties in Juan-les-Pins are the perfect choice. And if you’ve got babysitters in your party, take an evening off for cocktails and samba dancing at
   the nearby Pam Pam bar — not to be missed!
3. Pre-flight parking
   Traveling to your departure airport in your own vehicle is often the most stress-free option for families. Pre-book parking at Looking4.com for nationwide deals at airports from Atlanta to Anchorage to
   store your ride safely for the duration.
4. Belles Rives Hotel
   Fancy sipping a cool Kir Royale cocktail at the same spot where Jazz-age author F. Scott Fitzgerald penned his classic novel Tender Is the Night? Then head to the Belles Rives hotel near Juan-les-Pins at the crook of the Cap d’Antibes — this friendly and comfortable Art Deco masterpiece is awesomely atmospheric.
5. Cannes
   Cannes is the glamor capital of the Cote d’Azur and its international film festival has attracted the most famous stars in the firmament for generations. Held annually, 2019’s edition is on 14-25 May — if you’re in town at this time, you might spot celebs on their balconies at the iconic InterContinental Carlton hotel.
6. Monaco
   Monaco is an independent principality rather than a part of France, but its close proximity means its regarded by many as a Riviera attraction. The easiest way to visit is catching a train from stations in towns like Golfe Juan, then spending the day soaking up the opulent atmosphere around the casinos and hotels in Monte Carlo and the
   famous grand prix course.
7. St. Paul de Vence
   When you visit St Paul de Vence, be prepared for breath-taking views and a unique hilltop location full of cobbled streets, art galleries and charming cafes. It’s a cultured community where some of history’s most famous artists have lived and worked — many of whom paid for lodgings at the Colombe d’Or hotel and restaurant by donating masterpieces worth millions today.

Follow our seven French Riviera travel tips for a cultural trip that will fuel your creative passion for years to come.

Do you have more French Riviera tips? Share them in the comments section.