Devin Jacobs
It’s easy to think you’ve seen the Riviera after hitting a few beach towns. But the region has more to offer once you look beyond the usual stops, as hilltop views and historic streets all play a part. These 10 spots highlight the quieter charm travelers often remember most.
Eze Village
The village of Eze draws attention for its views from the Jardin Exotique and its clifftop layout. As you explore its medieval streets, you’ll find stone buildings and long-standing perfumeries such as Fragonard. Travelers can stay at the luxurious Chateau de la Chevre d’Or.
Saint-Paul-De-Vence
This 10th-century village blends history with art galleries across its old stone streets. Just outside, Fondation Maeght shows bold modern pieces, and Chagall is also buried nearby. Along the way, you’ll notice it’s been used in films, including āMoment to Momentā and visited by names like Picasso and Montand.
Monaco’s Old Town (Le Rocher)
This historic part of Monaco centers around the Prince’s Palace, which has stood for over 700 years. Nearby, the Oceanographic Museum honors Cousteau’s legacy. Visitors usually stroll along the cobbled streets and watch the changing of the guard.
Cassis And The Calanques
The path to the Calanques starts in Cassis. This town is surrounded by cliffs and vineyards producing red and white wines. Those fjord-like inlets attract kayakers and climbers year-round. The same scenery inspired Impressionists and Post-Impressionists to paint it in earlier years.
Saint-Tropez
This former fishing town took off after Brigitte Bardot made it famous. These days, Saint-Tropez hosts an elite sailing event and draws visitors from around the world. In addition, the citadel also offers wide sea views. Meanwhile, the pastel buildings keep the coastal streets looking consistent and bright.
Menton
On the edge of Italy, Menton blends warm weather with citrus groves. Each year, the town hosts the Fete du Citron. The Jean Cocteau Museum also adds an artistic stop, where you can explore Italian architecture and culture. In 1796, Napoleon passed through here during his military campaign.
Cannes
Film festivals made Cannes famous. However, beyond the flashing cameras, the Boulevard de la Croisette stretches out with luxury shops and grand hotels that define the city’s modern energy. Just uphill, Le Suquet preserves its medieval roots, while offshore, the Lerins Islands guard cinematic legends.
Niceās Promenade Des Anglais
Running seven kilometers along the sea, the Promenade des Anglais was established in the 1820s with support from wealthy British visitors. Today, its palm-lined path links Belle Epoque hotels and scenic coastal stretches. It also offers some of the Riviera’s best sunset views.
Beaulieu-Sur-Mer
This spot keeps a lower profile than its neighbors, yet its blend of history and calm makes it worth the stop. The Villa Kerylos, modeled after an ancient Greek home, stands near rare subtropical gardens. Stories of Queen Victoria and Russian nobility still linger in the local lore.
La Turbie
Set above Monaco, La Turbie draws attention with the Trophy of Augustus: a Roman monument overlooking Monaco and the sea. Its narrow streets trace back to the Middle Ages. Just outside town, cliffs attract paragliders looking to take in the same sweeping views.