The French Riviera is simple pure breathtaking intense Glamorous fascinating to explore
THE ROADS
Lower Corniche
(Lower Corniche, closest to the sea, often D6098/N98): This hugs the coastline for easy access to beaches and ports.
- Villefranche-sur-Mer — Iconic deep-water harbor with colorful old town, citadel, and charming streets; great for a stroll or seafood lunch.
- Beaulieu-sur-Mer — Elegant Belle Époque vibe, luxurious villas, and the beautiful Greek-style Villa Kerylos to visit.
- Èze-Bord-de-Mer (lower part of Èze) — Seaside access; from here, you can hike up Nietzsche’s Path to the hilltop village.
- Cap d’Ail — Quiet coves like Mala Beach, coastal paths, and Belle Époque charm; right before Monaco.
- Monaco / Monte-Carlo — Yacht-filled ports, the famous casino, Prince’s Palace, and glamour overload.
- Roquebrune-Cap-Martin — Continues eastward with coastal paths and Cap Martin peninsula.
- Menton — Pastel old town, lemon gardens, and the Italian border; known as the « Pearl of France. »
Middle Corniche
- Higher up for panoramic views, fewer stops but dramatic overlooks.
- Views over Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula (famous for billionaire villas and gardens), and the coast.
- Èze village — The star stop: medieval perched village with narrow cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and the Exotic Garden (Jardin Exotique d’Èze) offering sweeping sea views.
- Passes near Beausoleil (overlooking Monaco).
- Joins lower roads near Cap Martin / Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.
- Grande Corniche (Upper/High Corniche): The highest and most thrilling, with epic vistas.
- La Turbie — Main town here; home to the ancient Roman Trophy of Augustus (Trophée des Alpes), a monumental ruin with incredible views.
- Panoramas over the entire coastline, Monaco from above, and the Mediterranean.
- Pull-offs and viewpoints (like near Mont des Mules) for photos.
- Descends toward Monaco or connects back via other routes.
Golden Corniche / Esterel Corniche
This rugged, red-rock coastal drive (D559/D6098) runs along the Massif de l’Esterel massif, with turquoise waters and fewer crowds.
- Théoule-sur-Mer — Starting point with dramatic cliffs and small beaches.
- Le Trayas — Quiet coves and viewpoints.
- Agay — Pretty bay and resort area.
- Le Dramont and Anthéor — Striking red rocks meeting the sea; great for photos and short walks.
- Ends near Saint-Raphaël (with Roman ruins nearby in Fréjus for a bonus).
Other Nearby or Inland Spots Often Paired with These Drives
- Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat — Luxurious peninsula with a scenic promenade; accessible from lower roads near Villefranche.
- Hill villages like Gourdon (via Gorges du Loup) or others inland for contrast.
These spots turn a simple drive into a full experience—many have parking challenges in peak season, so early starts help. Favorites for most visitors are Èze village (for its fairy-tale perch), Villefranche-sur-Mer (for charm), and La Turbie (for history and views).
THE COASTS
Dramatic cliffs and rocky promontories, Beaches vary hugely, Rugged red-rock wildness, Glamorous bays and harbors
Start in Nice
Arrive, stroll the Promenade des Anglais, swim (or dip toes) on pebbly beaches, explore Vieux Nice’s markets and gelato, and climb Colline du Château for panoramic coast views. It’s the perfect intro to the Riviera’s energy.
Head east along the lower/middle Corniches
Drive or train to Villefranche-sur-Mer for its colorful harbor and swimmable bay, then Beaulieu-sur-Mer or Cap d’Ail for quieter coves like Plage Mala (cliffs + turquoise water). Continue to Monaco for yacht-spotting and glamour.
Climb to hilltop gems
Visit Èze village (perched medieval wonder with Exotic Garden views over cliffs and sea), hike Nietzsche’s Path down to the coast if you’re active. Add Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat for luxurious peninsula paths and hidden beaches like Passable or Paloma.
Westward coastal drive
Explore Antibes (old town ramparts, Picasso Museum, sandy-ish beaches), Cannes (La Croisette glamour, film festival vibes), then the Corniche d’Or (Esterel) for red-rock cliffs, pine-scented twists, and wild coves—great for photos and picnics.
End eastward or relax
Finish in Menton (« Pearl of France ») for lemon gardens, pastel old town, and serene pebble beaches near Italy—perfect for unwinding with gelato and sea views.
Bonus tips for enjoyment
Rent a convertible for the Corniches’ thrills, time visits for early mornings/late afternoons to beat crowds, pack water shoes for pebbly beaches, and mix drives with trains/boats for variety. Add swims, fresh seafood lunches, and sunset aperitifs overlooking the water.
