How to Spend 10 Days in the South of France: The Perfect French Riviera Itinerary

The South of France is one of those places that lives up to every expectation. Sun-drenched coastlines, pastel-colored villages perched on hilltops, exclusive beach clubs where rosé flows all afternoon, and that effortless French Riviera elegance that makes everything feel a little more chic. This corner of Europe has captivated travelers for decades, and once you experience it for yourself, you’ll understand why people keep coming back year after year. Whether you’re dreaming of lounging on the beaches of Saint-Tropez, wandering through lavender fields in Provence, or sipping champagne overlooking the Mediterranean in Monaco, the French Riviera delivers on every front. From Michelin-starred restaurants to medieval villages where time seems to stand still, there’s a beautiful balance between luxury and authenticity that makes this region so special.

If you’re planning your first trip to the South of France (or returning to discover more), this 10-day itinerary will guide you through the most iconic destinations while leaving room for those slower, more intimate moments that capture the true essence of the Côte d’Azur. Think morning markets, long seaside lunches, golden hour walks along the coast, and evenings that stretch into the night. This is the kind of trip where you savor every moment.

Why Nice is the Perfect Home Base for Your South of France Itinerary

When planning a trip to the French Riviera, choosing the right home base is essential, and Nice is hands-down the best option. First, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) provides convenient international connections, making it an easy gateway to the South of France. Once you arrive, Nice’s central location along the coast makes it ideal for exploring nearby gems like Cannes, Monaco, Antibes, Saint-Tropez, and the hilltop villages of Provence. All of these are within easy reach by train, bus, or car.

Beyond logistics, Nice itself is a destination worth savoring. The city itself has plenty to offer: a vibrant Old Town (Vieux Nice) with colorful buildings and winding streets, the famous Promenade des Anglais stretching along the Mediterranean, world-class museums, and incredible restaurants ranging from traditional French to contemporary Mediterranean. Staying in Nice means you can take day trips to lavender fields, medieval villages, and exclusive beach clubs, then return each evening to a cosmopolitan city with its own distinct charm. It’s the perfect blend of convenience, culture, and coastal beauty.

Day 1: Arrival in the South of France

Your South of France adventure begins at Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE), the gateway to the French Riviera and the most convenient entry point for this itinerary. As the third-busiest airport in France, Nice welcomes direct flights from major European cities, as well as seasonal routes from North America and the Middle East. The airport itself is refreshingly manageable—two terminals connected by a free shuttle, both just minutes from the arrivals hall to baggage claim. You’ll find car rental desks, currency exchange, and a surprising number of decent coffee options for a quick espresso before you begin your trip.

Getting from Nice Airport to Your Hotel

While Nice Airport sits just 7 kilometers from the city center, I always recommend booking a private transfer rather than navigating taxis or shuttling luggage onto public buses after a long flight. Book a private transfer through DayTrip and you’ll be met at arrivals with a name sign, helped with your bags, and driven directly to your hotel in comfort. Their drivers speak English, the vehicles are clean, and the fixed pricing means no surprises — worth every euro when you’re jet-lagged and just want to arrive gracefully.

Day 2: Explore Nice and its Beaches

After arriving and settling into your hotel, it’s time to explore Nice, the capital of the French Riviera. This vibrant city is known for its beautiful architecture, luxurious promenade, and stunning beaches.

A must-see in Nice is the iconic Promenade des Anglais, a 7-kilometer stretch of promenade that runs along the Mediterranean coast. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk or a bike ride while taking in panoramic views of the sea. Head into the Vieux Nice (Old Town) for a taste of the city’s history. Wander through narrow streets, vibrant markets, and sample local delicacies such as socca (chickpea pancake) or salade niçoise.

Nice offers some of the best beaches in the South of France, with a combination of private and public sections. Whether you prefer lounging on a private sunbed at one of the chic beach clubs or relaxing on the pebbled shores of the public beach, the waters of the Mediterranean are crystal clear and absolutely stunning.

In Nice, the beach clubs along the famous Promenade des Anglais offer a luxurious and laid-back way to enjoy the magic of the French Riviera. Blue Beach, one of the most popular South of France beach clubs, is known for its chic atmosphere, comfortable lounge chairs, and delicious seafood. For a more exclusive experience, Le Voilier Plage offers an elegant setting with private cabanas, perfect for those seeking a more refined beach day on the French Riviera. Many South of France beach clubs operate on a reservation basis, where guests can rent sunbeds or cabanas for the day. These usually come with perks such as towels, beachside service, and access to the club’s restaurant and bar. Some beach clubs even offer packages that include a meal or a bottle of wine, making it a fantastic way to spend a full day by the sea. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing spot to unwind or a lively atmosphere with music and cocktails, the beach clubs in Nice offer a quintessential experience of South of France beaches and the luxurious Riviera lifestyle.

In the evening, enjoy a seafood dinner with a view at one of the seaside restaurants, as the sun sets over the sparkling waters. I highly recommend dining at La Réserve de Nice for a beautiful meal, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean.

Day 3: Day Trip to Antibes

Just a 20-minute train ride from Nice Ville Station, Antibes offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and Riviera glamour — without Nice’s crowds. Trains depart every 20-30 minutes throughout the day, and tickets cost just €5-€7 each way (buy them at the station or via the SNCF app).

What to Do in Antibes

Start in the Old Town (Vieil Antibes), where narrow cobblestone streets wind past pastel shutters, local boutiques, and the bustling Marché Provençal—open mornings Tuesday through Sunday with incredible produce, flowers, and local specialties like socca and olive tapenade. The Musée Picasso, housed in the 14th-century Château Grimaldi overlooking the sea, is an absolute must. Picasso worked here in 1946, and the collection includes paintings, ceramics, and drawings created during his most joyful, Mediterranean-inspired period. The rooftop sculpture terrace alone is worth the €8 admission.

Walk down to Port Vauban afterward for views of some of the world’s most impressive superyachts — this is one of the largest marinas in the Mediterranean, and the sheer scale of these boats never gets old. The ramparts walk (Chemin de Ronde) offers stunning views over the port and coast.

Where to Eat in Antibes

For lunch, Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit offers refined Provençal cuisine in a stunning historic chapel setting—it’s Michelin-starred but maintains a welcoming atmosphere that never feels stuffy. If you want a truly memorable beachfront lunch, Plage Keller on Cap d’Antibes’ Plage de la Garoupe is another excellent choice. The menu focuses on Mediterranean seafood: grilled sea bass cooked in salt crust, and whatever the local catch brings in that morning. Dining with your toes in the sand while watching yachts drift by is exactly the kind of Riviera moment you came here for. If you’re staying into the evening, L’Arazur is a lovely dinner choice — its Mediterranean cuisine and intimate atmosphere make it a standout.

Before your train back, spend an hour at Plage de la Gravette, a sheltered sandy beach tucked beside the old town walls. It’s family-friendly, never too crowded, and the water is beautiful. After your beach day, return to Nice in the early evening with plenty of time to enjoy dinner and an evening stroll along the Promenade des Anglais.

Day 4: Cannes & A Private Yacht Experience

Cannes is everything you imagine the French Riviera to be — glamorous, sun-drenched, and picturesque every where you go. Start your morning with a leisurely stroll along the Boulevard de la Croisette, the palm-lined promenade that defines Cannes. Luxury boutiques, grand Belle Époque hotels, and sidewalk cafés create the perfect backdrop for people-watching over an espresso.

Cannes is truly blessed with beautiful sandy beaches that stretch along the Croisette. For an elevated beach club experience, the Croisette is lined with legendary options. Carlton Beach Club offers refined elegance with white sunbeds and Mediterranean cuisine in a Belle Époque setting. La Plage du Martinez features Chef Jean Imbert’s Mediterranean menu and chic design inspired by a boat deck. Ciro’s Cannes, the legendary Deauville restaurant’s new seaside outpost at the Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, brings yacht-inspired elegance to the Croisette with fresh seafood, classic bouillabaisse, and refined Mediterranean cuisine.

If you prefer a quieter, more local vibe, head west to Plage de la Bocca, where the scene is more relaxed and the beaches are wider.

Book a Private Yacht Tour

The best way to experience Cannes is from the water, and I highly recommend booking this private yacht tour, which has several five star reviews. You’ll board the Fripouille, a spacious 12-meter Dufour sailboat, for an exclusive half-day cruise to the Lérins Islands. Swim in hidden turquoise coves, paddleboard in crystal-clear water, or snorkel above the Cannes Underwater Museum where monumental sculptures rest on the seabed. The experience includes an aperitif on board, and you can add optional seafood platters or wood-fired pizzas. It’s intimate, unhurried, and the kind of Riviera experience that stays with you—and less than $700 for your entire group.

As the sun begins to set, make your way up to Le Suquet, Cannes’ charming old town perched on the hillside. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets, browse local galleries and artisan shops, then settle into one of the cozy restaurants with sweeping views over the bay. This is where locals come to escape the Croisette buzz, and the sunset views are spectacular.

Where To Eat in Cannes

For a memorable rooftop lunch with a view, Bella at Hotel Belle Plage is a hidden gem on the 8th floor. The Mediterranean menu features exceptional hummus, fresh fish carpaccios, and perfectly grilled meats — all with sweeping views over Cannes. It’s ideal for a long, wine-accompanied lunch that feels both relaxed and special.

For dinner in Le Suquet, Table 22 is an absolute standout. Located near the Marché Forville, chef Noël Mantel has been delivering beautifully executed Provençal cuisine for over two decades. The menu showcases premium seasonal ingredients in dishes like lobster ravioli with tender leeks, roast rack of lamb with thyme jus, and local fish with Mediterranean vegetables. The intimate, contemporary setting and exceptional wine list make it perfect for a special evening.

Another excellent choice is La Môme on rue Florian, a glamorous Mediterranean hotspot known for its signature pasta dishes, perfectly grilled steaks, and luxurious caviar offerings. The menu features standouts like truffle risotto, spaghetti with caviar, and premium beef cuts, all served in a chic setting with live music from the DJ booth. It’s the place to see and be seen in Cannes—stylish, festive, and consistently delicious.

Day 5: Saint-Tropez & the Beach Clubs of Pampelonne

Saint-Tropez’s legendary beach club scene isn’t actually in the town itself—it unfolds along the stunning five-kilometer stretch of Plage de Pampelonne in nearby Ramatuelle, just a 15-minute drive away. This is where the French Riviera’s most memorable daytime culture comes alive, and I’m telling you this from experience: spending a day at a Saint-Tropez beach club will be one of the best things you do on your South of France trip.

How The Beach Clubs Work in Saint-Tropez

Understanding the beach club system will help you make the most of your day. Here’s what you need to know:

Reservations are essential: You’ll book two things separately: a restaurant table for lunch, and sun loungers or daybeds on the beach. Most clubs require reservations weeks (even months) in advance for July and August.

Two seatings, two vibes: Lunch is served in two shifts—the first seating around 12:30-1:00pm, and the second seating around 3:30-4:00pm. The first service is relaxed and perfect for a leisurely meal by the sea. The second service is where the magic happens: DJs take over around 4pm, the music gets louder, champagne starts flowing, and by late afternoon people are dancing on tables. For the full Saint-Tropez experience, always book the second seating.

What’s included (and what isn’t): Your sun lounger or daybed rental gives you a spot on the beach for the day, usually including towels, umbrellas, and access to showers and changing rooms. Food and drinks are always separate—you order from your lounger or move to a table in the restaurant. Expect to spend €300-500+ per person for a full day including loungers, lunch, and drinks.

How to Book Your Reservations: Reserve both your restaurant table and beach loungers separately—either by calling directly or booking online. Most beach clubs open reservations months in advance for peak season (July and August), so book as early as possible to secure your spot.

What to Wear: Dress stylishly but keep it beach-appropriate — chic cover-ups, elevated swimwear, and fashionable sandals (but not flip-flops). The vibe is more refined and elegant than what you’d wear poolside in Vegas or Miami. And remember: the second seating is where the real Saint-Tropez magic happens.

The Best Beach Clubs in Saint-Tropez

Verde Beach is the party-goer’s paradise with a bohemian-chic aesthetic and seriously good food (all chefs are trained at Alain Ducasse). The Balinese-style setting features natural driftwood, macramé umbrellas, and a lively yet intimate vibe. From 4pm onward, international DJs transform the afternoon into a full celebration—think sparkler-topped champagne bottles, dancers, and everyone on their feet. The truffle pizza and burrata are standouts, and the energy is infectious without feeling over-the-top.

Loulou Ramatuelle brings Parisian elegance to the sand. Opened in 2019 by the team behind Paris’s iconic Loulou restaurant, this beach club perfectly captures 1950s Riviera glamour with modern sophistication. Chef Benoît Dargère serves Mediterranean-Italian cuisine—the truffle pizza is legendary, and the tiramisu is meant for sharing. The design is impeccable, the beach is immaculately maintained, and the second service DJ sets are consistently excellent. It’s chic, fun, and family-friendly if you’re traveling with children.

Le Club 55 is the original, the icon, the one that started it all. Founded in 1955 when Brigitte Bardot was filming And God Created Woman, it remains the most famous beach club in Saint-Tropez. The vibe is relaxed, authentic, and unpretentious despite its high-profile clientele. The food is simple and excellent — always start with the panier de crudités (their famous fresh vegetable platter), then go for grilled fish and a bottle of their estate rosé. Tables are scattered in the sand under bamboo umbrellas, and the atmosphere feels delightfully timeless.

Day 6: Provence Countryside & Lavender Fields

After days of coastal glamour, escape inland to experience the timeless beauty of Provence. The rolling hills, perched villages, and endless lavender fields are a completely different side of the South of France—quieter, slower, and absolutely stunning.

If you’re visiting between mid-June and mid-July, the lavender fields are in full bloom, and it’s one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll see. The plateau of Valensole becomes a sea of purple during this brief window, and the light in the early morning is absolutely magical for photos. I recommend booking this Semi-Private Lavender Fields Tour in Valensole from Aix-en-Provence. This intimate small-group tour (maximum eight people) picks you up in the morning when the light is perfect, takes you to the best lavender fields around Valensole, and gives you plenty of time to wander, take photos, and soak it all in. You’ll also have free time in Valensole village to browse shops selling lavender oil, honey, and soap, or try lavender ice cream from one of the local cafés.

Note: To get to the Aix-en-Provence pickup point from Nice or Cannes, I recommend booking a private transfer with DayTrip. They’ll handle the driving so you can relax and enjoy the countryside views, and you can arrange for round-trip transportation — meaning they’ll also pick you up after the tour and bring you back to your hotel in Nice (or wherever you’ve booked your accommodations).

Day 7: A Slow Day in Èze Village

Today is all about slowing down and savoring one of the most beautiful villages on the French Riviera. Arrive early to beat the tour bus crowds — Èze gets packed by mid-morning. The village is entirely pedestrian and built on a steep hillside, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Enter through the 14th-century stone gateway Poterne and let yourself get lost in the narrow cobblestone streets. Wander slowly, peek into artisan workshops selling ceramics and jewelry, admire the stone archways draped in wisteria, and soak in the views of the sea far below.

Your main destination is the Jardin Exotique d’Èze at the very top of the village (entrance €8). This exotic garden of cacti, succulents, and Mediterranean plants is built among the ruins of the 12th-century château at the highest point. The panoramic views from here are absolutely breathtaking — you can see the entire coastline from Cap Ferrat to the Italian border, and on clear days, even Corsica. Sit on one of the benches, breathe in the garden’s tranquility, and just enjoy being exactly where you are.

For a truly memorable lunch, book ahead at Château Eza or La Chèvre d’Or—both are Michelin-starred restaurants with spectacular terraces overlooking the Mediterranean. This is the meal to splurge on during your trip. Château Eza is slightly more accessible price-wise, while La Chèvre d’Or is the more famous of the two (it was a favorite of Walt Disney’s). Either way, plan to linger over lunch for a couple of hours.

In the late afternoon, make your way down to the Fragonard Perfume Factory at the base of the village. The free 30-minute guided factory tours run throughout the day (every 30 minutes from 9am-6pm, no reservation needed)—just show up at reception and join the next available tour. You’ll learn about traditional Provençal perfume-making techniques, see the cosmetics laboratory where creams and soaps are handcrafted, and discover the ancient art of steam distillation. If you’d like to create your own custom perfume to take home, book the perfume-making workshop in advance (this workshop in particular has five star-ratings). The workshop costs around €38 and you’ll create your own 12ml Eau de Toilette with guidance from an expert. The boutique sells perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics at factory prices — perfect for bringing home a scent that will always remind you of the South of France.

Day 8: Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is one of the most exclusive peninsulas on the French Riviera, known for luxury villas, pristine beaches, and stunning coastal views. This tiny peninsula between Nice and Monaco offers a more peaceful, upscale alternative to the busier Riviera hotspots. Getting to Cap Ferrat from Nice is easy—it’s a 20-minute drive along the coast, or you can take bus #15 from Nice (around 40 minutes). Alternatively, take the train to Beaulieu-sur-Mer and then hop on bus #15 or walk the scenic coastal path (about 45 minutes).

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

Start your morning at the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, the stunning pink palace built by Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild in the early 1900s. The villa features nine themed gardens—French, Spanish, Florentine, Japanese, and Provençal—along with Old Master paintings, rare Sèvres porcelain, and Gobelins tapestries. The main French garden was designed to resemble a ship’s deck, and the Baroness made her gardeners wear sailor berets to complete the illusion. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the gardens and opulent interiors at a relaxed pace. The tea room terrace offers beautiful views over the Bay of Villefranche if you want to linger over coffee.

Beaches & Coastal Walks

After the villa, head to Plage de Passable on the western side for family-friendly swimming with crystal-clear water, or Plage Paloma on the southern tip (currently undergoing renovations but expected to reopen summer 2026). Both beaches offer lounger rentals for around €50-60 per day, or you can enjoy the free public beach sections. If you’re in the mood for a scenic walk, the Promenade Maurice Rouvier coastal path connects to Beaulieu-sur-Mer—perfect for an afternoon stroll with views of luxury yachts and turquoise water.
Before leaving, wander through the charming Saint-Jean village harbor, browse the upscale boutiques, and soak in the exclusive-yet-relaxed atmosphere that makes Cap Ferrat so special.

Where to Eat in Cap Ferrat

For a waterfront lunch, Le Quai 28 sits right on the marina with gorgeous views over the boats and the bay toward Monaco. The Mediterranean menu features fresh seafood and the terrace atmosphere is relaxed and inviting. Another great lunch spot is La Table de La Réserve at the iconic Réserve de Beaulieu hotel (technically just off Cap Ferrat in Beaulieu-sur-Mer). Its terrace overlooks the Mediterranean with impeccable service and refined French cuisine—expect to splurge here, but the views alone are worth it. If you want something more casual, Mayssa Beach is perfect for a beach club lunch with your feet practically in the sand. The Lebanese-Mediterranean fusion menu includes fresh grilled fish, mezze platters, and excellent rosé.

For dinner, Le Cap at the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat (Four Seasons) holds one Michelin star. Chef Yoric Tièche’s Mediterranean cuisine showcases the best Provençal ingredients with elegant presentations, served on a stunning terrace overlooking the sea. As one of the most iconic restaurants along the French Riviera, I recommend booking reservations at least 2-3 months in advance to secure a table.

Day 9: A Glamorous Day Trip to Monaco

Monaco is actually one of those places where you could easily spend 2-3 days, but if you only have a day, you’ll still get to soak in its glamorous vibes. And here’s an unpopular opinion: I don’t think Monaco is overrated at all. Yes, it’s tiny (just 2 square kilometers), wealthy, and packed with superyachts and luxury cars, but there’s something undeniably magnetic about this sovereign city-state. Monaco is known for the Monte Carlo Casino, Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit, ultra-luxury shopping, and its royal family—Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace Kelly put it on the map as a jet-set destination.

Start your day with brunch at Café de Paris Monte Carlo, sitting right on Place du Casino with a prime terrace for watching Monaco’s social scene. The Belle Époque brasserie serves classic French fare in an iconic setting—this is where you want to linger over coffee and croissants while Ferraris and Lamborghinis circle the square.

After brunch, spend the afternoon shopping. The area around Place du Casino is designer shopping heaven—you’ll findHermès, Chanel, Dior, and Louis Vuitton all within steps of each other. Head to the Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo, the stunning shopping center with high-end fashion, jewelry, and beauty boutiques all under one beautifully designed roof. Even if you’re not buying, window shopping here is an experience in itself. Afterwards, wander around Place du Casino to see the Belle Époque Casino de Monte-Carlo (designed by Charles Garnier, who also designed the Paris Opera).

For dinner, head to Cipriani Monte Carlo, located at the base of the prestigious Mirabeau building on Avenue Princesse Grace. This is the Monaco outpost of the legendary Venetian restaurant brand founded by Giuseppe Cipriani in 1931. The elegant dining room exudes timeless Italian sophistication, and the menu features classic dishes like their famous Bellini cocktails, hand-cut beef carpaccio, homemade tagliolini, and risotto alla Milanese. The service is impeccable, the atmosphere is refined, and dining here feels like stepping into old-world European glamour.

Day 10: Departure and Final Day in Nice

Your last morning in Nice is best spent savoring the slower pace before heading to the airport. If you have time, grab breakfast along the Promenade des Anglais—there’s something perfect about one final café au lait with a view of the Mediterranean. Wander through Vieux Nice for any last-minute shopping (lavender soaps, Provençal linens, or a jar of tapenade make great souvenirs), or simply sit by the sea and soak in the Riviera atmosphere one more time. Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is only about 20 minutes from the city center, so you won’t need to rush out too early. The 10 days have flown by, but you’ve experienced the very best of the South of France — from the lavender fields of Provence to the pink palace gardens of Cap Ferrat, the exclusive beach clubs of Saint-Tropez to the medieval charm of Èze, and the glittering casinos of Monaco. The French Riviera has a way of staying with you long after you leave, and chances are, you’re already planning your return trip before the plane even takes off.

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