The Côte d'Azur has been Europe’s number one destination for glamour and sunshine since before holidays began! Otherwise known as the French Riviera, the “azure coast” owes its name to the deep blues of the neighbouring Mediterranean Sea. Paving the way for artists of the past and the sun seekers of today, there’s much to be discovered on this sparkling stretch of coastline.
Beaches
With the plethora of beaches that line the coast, from Saint-Tropez in the west stretching into the Italian Riviera in the east, there’s sure to be the ideal sunshine spot to suit any taste. Luxuriate on the beach club studded shores of either the public or private beaches in the coastal cities of Cannes and Nice. Or head to Saint Tropez’s famed Pampelonne Beach, made famous in the 1950s by Brigitte Bardot in And God Created Woman, for some sophisticated sea-side pampering. If you prefer more laidback hidden treasures, there are countless secluded coves in between where you can chase the day away.
Food & Drink
Ideal for foodies, the Côte d'Azur offers a diverse choice of local specialities and gourmet delights. Sample the Salade Niçoise in Nice, the Italian-inspired dishes in Menton and the Michelin star studded restaurants of Monaco and Cannes. In Marseille, you can enjoy the aniseed-based aperitif Pastis before tucking into the region’s signature Bouillabaisse fish stew, while Provençal rosés and vegetable Ratatouille can be enjoyed in most spots. The coastal blend of sun-drenched Mediterranean cuisine with the traditional herbs of southern France will be enough to set your mouth watering.
Culture
With the Côte d'Azur’s artistic history, wonderfully preserved century-old beauty meets modern day luxury. Surrounded by yachts and celebrities, there’s certainly an opportunity to live the high life – especially with some of the glamorous events on offer, including the Cannes Film festival and Monaco’s Formula One Grand Prix in May. Even simply wandering the cobbled streets of the coastal towns and exploring the countless galleries and museums along the way, you’ll be pulled into the timeless magic unique to the Riviera.
Nightlife
Many of the beach clubs stay open well into the evening, beginning with fancy wining and dining and turning to live music and DJs at night. The classic clubs belong to the likes of Monaco, Nice and Cannes, with the mot glitzy and glamorous venues residing in Saint Tropez. But various hidden gems can be found in between, offering summer fun for the young at heart along Mala Beach and the shores of Antibes and Juan les Pins.
Important Information
Flight Time: It takes around 2 hours to fly from the UK/Ireland to Nice Côte d'Azur Airport.Time Difference: +1hrCurrency: EurosOfficial Language: French
