Overview
CANNES
The city’s Old Port offers luxurious boutiques and casinos, while Le Suquet, or Old Town, provides a look into the area’s more traditional past. A stroll along Cannes’ winding streets, captivating churches, and clock towers reminds one of an earlier, more humble period.
A short boat ride from Cannes brings vacationers to the lush, historic Île Sainte-Marguerite, dating back to ancient Roman times. Here, bird-watchers can get a close-up view of swans, herons, falcons and more at the isle’s Étang du Batéguier pond, while nature lovers will enjoy the fragrant eucalyptus, pines and expansive views.
History buffs will appreciate the 17th-century Fort Royal, where France's most infamous prisoner, the Man in the Iron Mask, was once confined.
Cannes’ old quarter, with its quaint houses, winding alleyways, and impressive Château de Cannes, offer an authentic view of Provence; while upscale hotels, shops, and Allée des Étoiles, Cannes’ walk of fame, provide a more modern picture.
NICE
Sitting peacefully amidst azure Mediterranean seas, Nice has welcomed vacationers and renowned artists for centuries, such as beloved Henri Matisse, who spent his entire life in the city, and French-Russian modernist Marc Chagall. Museums, such as Musée Matisse and Musée Chagall, have been built here in their honor. Vacationers searching for something a bit more modern will enjoy the Musée d’art Moderne et d’art Contemporain (MAMAC).
Or simply admire Nice’s inspirational views. A ride or stroll along the Promenade des Anglais features grand views of the sparkling Mediterranean. Those more musically inclined should visit the baroque-style Palais Lascaris in Old Nice, built during the early 17th century. A collection of 500 or so rare musical instruments line its halls, adorned with colorful frescoes.
The regional capital of the exquisite French Riviera, Nice displays its charms in a more low-key fashion than neighboring Saint-Tropez or star-studded Cannes. Together, they create the perfect French Riviera holiday.
What To Do
CANNES
Discover underwater archeological treasures from ancient Roman shipwrecks at Musée de la Mer.
Explore the medieval ruins of Île Sainte-Marguerite, a tree-studded island about a mile and a half from Cannes. Hike along its natural reserve, Le Batéguier. Or visit another nearby isle, Île Saint-Honora, with its 19th-century monastery. Vacationers can purchase wines and other souvenirs made by resident monks, and fortunate souls can even arrange for a contemplative retreat. Get an authentic taste of Cannes at the tempting Marché Forville, where locals sell fresh seafood plucked right from nearby seas, plus delicious cheeses, colorful flowers, and traditional French delicacies.
NICE
Climb Colline du Château (Castle Hill) for incredible views of Nice’s Old Town and nearby turquoise seas. Go for a cool dip in the glistening waters of the Mediterranean.
Delight yourself or your favorite someone with a bouquet of vividly colored flowers from a quaint shop in Vieille Ville (Old Town). Sip some café au lait at a local café and watch the world stroll by.
Visit the fragrant lavender fields of Grasse, between Nice and Cannes.
Explore the impressive impressionist paintings highlighting Nice at Musée Matisse.
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