Planning your first trip to the French Riviera? I live in Nice and I’ve personally explored every spot on this itinerary—plus I’ve helped tons of friends plan their perfect week here, so I know exactly what works!
This 7-day itinerary is designed specifically for first-timers who want to see the best of the Côte d’Azur without feeling rushed.
We’ll base you in Nice (the perfect home base) and take easy day trips to Monaco, Cannes, and those dreamy hilltop villages you’ve seen all over Instagram.
Day 1: Arrive in Nice
Welcome to Nice! After you land at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, grab a taxi or tram into the city center (the tram is super easy and only takes about 30 minutes). Check into your hotel and take some time to settle in and shake off any travel fatigue.
For where to stay, I recommend the area around the Old Town or near the Promenade des Anglais. T
hese neighborhoods put you within walking distance of everything and have tons of restaurants and cafes nearby. Mid-range hotels and Airbnbs here offer great value, and you’ll feel like a local in no time.
Once you’re refreshed, head out for an evening stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais. This iconic waterfront walkway stretches for miles along the brilliant blue Mediterranean, and it’s especially magical at sunset.
Grab a seat at one of the beachfront cafes, order an Aperol spritz, and just soak it all in. For dinner, wander into the Old Town and find a cozy bistro serving fresh seafood or classic Niçoise cuisine.
Try the salade niçoise or socca (a delicious chickpea pancake) to start your French Riviera food journey right.
Day 2: Explore Nice
Today is all about discovering the heart and soul of Nice. Start your morning in Vieux Nice (Old Town), a maze of narrow, colorful streets filled with markets, bakeries, and cute little shops.
The Cours Saleya market is a must-visit, especially if you’re there in the morning when the flower and produce vendors set up their vibrant stalls. Grab a fresh croissant and cafe au lait and wander through the medieval streets.
After exploring the Old Town, make your way up to Castle Hill (Colline du Château). Don’t worry, there’s no actual castle left, but the views from the top are absolutely incredible.
You can either hike up the stairs (it’s a good workout but worth it) or take the free elevator. From the top, you’ll see panoramic views of Nice’s red rooftops, the turquoise bay, and the surrounding hills.
It’s one of those views that makes you feel like you’re in a postcard.
Spend your afternoon exploring more of Nice at your own pace. Check out the Marc Chagall Museum if you love art, or just relax on the pebbly beach with a good book. In the evening, head to the Port area for dinner.
The harbor is lined with excellent seafood restaurants, and watching the boats bob in the water as the sun sets is the perfect end to your day.
Day 3: Monaco & Monte Carlo
Get ready for some serious glamour today because you’re heading to Monaco. This tiny principality is only about 30 minutes from Nice by train, making it an easy and exciting day trip.
Grab a morning train from Nice-Ville station (buy tickets at the station or online) and enjoy the scenic coastal ride.
Once you arrive, start with the Prince’s Palace in Monaco-Ville (the old town perched on the rock). If you time it right, you can catch the changing of the guard at 11:55 AM.
The palace area offers stunning views over the harbor filled with mega-yachts. Wander through the narrow streets, visit the cathedral where Princess Grace is buried, and soak up the old-world charm before heading down to the glitzy port.
Next, make your way to Monte Carlo. Even if you’re not a gambler, the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo is worth seeing from the outside. The building itself is stunning, and the square around it screams luxury.
Walk around Port Hercules to see some of the most insane yachts you’ll ever lay eyes on. Before heading back to Nice, grab lunch at a café overlooking the harbor.
Monaco is pricey, but you can find reasonable options if you avoid the super touristy spots. A simple croque monsieur and a glass of rosé while watching Ferraris drive by is a pretty perfect Monaco moment.
Day 4: Antibes & Juan-les-Pins
Today you’re off to Antibes, a gorgeous coastal town that perfectly blends history, art, and beach vibes. It’s about 30 minutes from Nice by train, and the journey along the coast is beautiful.
Antibes is way more laid-back than Monaco but just as charming.
Start with the Old Town, which is surrounded by 16th-century ramparts. Wander the cobblestone streets, check out the daily market (Marché Provençal), and make your way to the Picasso Museum.
Housed in a beautiful château right on the waterfront, this museum showcases works Picasso created during his time in Antibes. Even if you’re not a huge art buff, the building and coastal views alone make it worth a visit.
After lunch, head over to Juan-les-Pins, which is basically Antibes’ beachy younger sibling. This is where you’ll want to spend your afternoon relaxing on sandy beaches (yes, actual sand, not pebbles!).
There are both public beaches and private beach clubs where you can rent loungers and umbrellas.
Grab a swim, work on your tan, and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle. In the evening, head back to Nice or stay in Antibes for dinner at one of the harbor-side restaurants.
Day 5: Cannes
Cannes day! This is where the stars come out for the famous film festival every May, but honestly, Cannes is fabulous any time of year. It’s about 30-40 minutes by train from Nice, and you’ll want to start your day early to make the most of it.
Begin with a stroll down La Croisette, the famous palm-lined boulevard that runs along the beach. This is peak French Riviera glamour—designer shops, luxury hotels, and that sparkling blue sea.
Walk up the red-carpeted steps of the Palais des Festivals (where the film festival happens) and snap a photo. It’s touristy, but also kind of fun to pretend you’re a celebrity for a second.
Next, head up to Le Suquet, Cannes’ Old Town. The climb up the hill is worth it for the views over the bay and the charming old streets filled with local restaurants and shops.
This area feels much more authentic than the glitzy waterfront. For lunch, find a spot in Le Suquet or back near the port—Cannes has incredible seafood and plenty of trendy cafes.
Spend your afternoon shopping (if that’s your thing), beach hopping, or just people-watching from a cafe terrace. The vibe in Cannes is all about seeing and being seen, so embrace it.
Day 6: Èze & Villefranche-sur-Mer
This might be my favorite day of the whole itinerary. Today you’re visiting two of the most picturesque spots on the Riviera: the medieval village of Èze and the colorful seaside town of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Start with Èze, a stunning hilltop village that looks like something out of a fairy tale. You can get there by bus from Nice (bus 82 or 112) in about 30 minutes.
The village is perched high above the sea, with narrow stone streets, artist studios, and artisan shops.
The star attraction is the Exotic Garden at the very top—it’s filled with cacti and succulents, and the 360-degree views of the Mediterranean are absolutely breathtaking.
After Èze, head down to Villefranche-sur-Mer (you can catch a bus or train). This adorable fishing village has a gorgeous natural harbor, pastel-colored buildings, and one of the most beautiful beaches on the coast.
Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach, swimming in the crystal-clear water, or just wandering the waterfront promenade. Stay for dinner at a harborside restaurant and watch the boats as the sun sets—it’s pure magic.
Day 7: Final Day in Nice
Your last day has arrived, but don’t be sad—use it to soak up any last bits of Nice you might have missed. If you’re a museum lover, this is your chance to visit the Matisse Museum or the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMAC).
Alternatively, use today for last-minute shopping. The pedestrian streets around Avenue Jean Médecin have everything from high-street brands to French boutiques.
If you just want to relax, spend your final hours on the beach or at a cafe, watching the world go by. Have one last salade niçoise, sip some rosé, and reflect on the incredible week you just had.
Practical Tips
Getting around the French Riviera is incredibly easy. Trains connect all the major towns, and they’re frequent, affordable, and scenic.
For food, embrace the local specialties: salade niçoise, socca, pissaladière (a kind of onion tart), fresh seafood, and of course, lots of rosé. Lunch menus (menu du jour) are usually great value, especially in smaller towns.
Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat. A light sweater or jacket for evenings is also a good idea.
Money-saving tip: Many museums in Nice offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month. Picnicking is also a great budget-friendly option—grab fresh bread, cheese, and fruit from local markets and enjoy lunch with a view.
Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Accommodation (6 nights in Nice): €60-120 per night
Transportation: €50-80 total for trains/buses
Food: €40-60 per day
Museums/Attractions: €8-15 per entry
Total estimated cost: €500-800 for the week
You can save money by staying in hostels (€25-40/night), eating at local markets, and choosing free activities like beaches and hiking. Luxury travelers can expect to spend €1,200+ with upscale hotels and fine dining.
Packing List
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals for the beach
- Light cotton clothing
- Swimsuit and cover-up
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Light cardigan for evenings
- Small day pack
- Camera or phone with good camera
- Travel adapter for electronics
- Basic first aid items
- Reusable water bottle
FAQs
Q: Do I need to speak French?
A: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning basic French phrases like “bonjour” and “merci” is appreciated.
Q: What’s the best way to get from Nice airport to the city?
A: The tram is cheapest (€1.50) and takes 30 minutes, or take a taxi for about €35.
Q: Are the beaches free?
A: Public beaches are free, but you can rent loungers and umbrellas at private beach clubs for €15-25 per day.
Q: Is it safe for solo travelers?
A: The French Riviera is very safe, especially in tourist areas. Use normal travel precautions and you’ll be fine.
Conclusion
The French Riviera is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. From the sparkling blue waters and sunny beaches to the charming villages and world-class culture, every day of this itinerary offers something special.
This 7-day itinerary gives you the perfect introduction to the Côte d’Azur, balancing must-see highlights with plenty of time to relax and soak it all in. So what are you waiting for?
Start planning your French Riviera adventure—I promise it’ll be a trip you’ll never forget. The ideal time to visit is May through June or September through early October.
You’ll get gorgeous weather, fewer crowds than peak summer, and better hotel prices. Summer (July-August) is beautiful but packed and pricey. Spring and fall offer that perfect balance of sunshine and breathing room.
Dayna Brockbank is a travel and language-learning blogger who has lived around the world but has now settled in Nice, France. She speaks 3 languages at varying levels of fluency: Spanish, Italian, and French, and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Spanish Education. She and her husband focus on making travel part of life by living cheaply and traveling on a budget.