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After soaking up the mustard-infused charm of Dijon, we embarked on a road trip to the sun-drenched French Riviera. The journey from Dijon to our base in Biot was an epic 10-hour drive, featuring a significant traffic delay in Lyon—a city that tantalizingly remains on our must-visit list. Arriving at the Namea Appart’ Hotel (re-booked via Booking.com, as we stayed there during our first trip 6 years ago), we found our budget-friendly accommodation. Although a bit snug, it was perfect for four grown-ups eager for both adventure and a taste of the local cuisine. From this cozy hub in Biot, we set out to explore the rich tapestry of sun, sculptures, and sea views that the Riviera had to offer.

If you planing to explore some sides more in depth, e.g. enjoy the coolness of museums please check Tiquets for instant ticket bookings or Viator walking tours, wine tastings and so on.

To move between places and you are brave enough, you can rent a car. You can do it through Booking.com, which is convenient as you can book a hotel, plain, car and some attractions at the same place, or AutoEurope (EU, UK). If on another hand you do not need any stress related to driving during your time away I would strongly suggest to use trains, so convenient and you can reach most of the places on my list, check Kiwi.com or Rail Europe and start planing your day.

Before you book any place I would strongly suggest to hit into the Tripadvisor and check the reviews. I am usually starting my checking from the one star, just to see what others did not like, if their dislikes are not relevant to me I am considering the place. What is your method? Are reviews having impact on your decisions?

A Slice of Italy: Bordighera Bliss

After settling into our Riviera retreat, the lure of Italy proved too strong to resist. On our second day, a sudden and unshakeable pizza craving had us zipping over the border to Bordighera, a charming coastal town just a stone’s throw from France. Known for its beautiful palm-fringed promenades and historical ties to famous artists like Claude Monet, Bordighera is Italy’s lesser-known gem that offers tranquility away from the usual tourist paths.

We spent our day soaking up the sun on its inviting beaches and swimming in waters that seemed specially warmed for our visit. As the day waned, we indulged in what we came for: authentic Italian pizza. With each bite, savored against a backdrop of spectacular sea views, the flavors seemed to sing a serenade to the simplicity and beauty of Italian life. It was more than just a meal; it was a slice of Italian heaven that had us questioning whether we should ever leave.

A Dash of Menton: Lemon-Scented Adventures

Returning to France, the vibrant town of Menton awaited. Nestled right on the edge of the Italian border, Menton is often hailed as the “Pearl of France” — a title it holds with citrus-scented grace. This town is a kaleidoscope of color, from the lemon-yellow hues of its buildings to the azure blue of the sea. Menton’s cobbled streets, draped with vibrant bougainvillea and punctuated by quaint squares, offer an enchanting stroll through a living postcard.

But perhaps what really sets Menton apart is its annual Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival), held every February. If you find yourself in Menton during this time, you’re in for a real treat. Imagine a carnival where giant sculptures made from lemons and oranges line the streets, celebrating the town’s citrusy heritage with zest and zeal. It’s not just a festival; it’s an ode to the lemon, and trust me, it’s as refreshing as it sounds.

Whether it’s diving into the culinary delights of Bordighera or exploring the lemon-lined lanes of Menton, these destinations promise a burst of flavor and culture that’s sure to leave you wanting more. So, why settle for the well-trodden path when you can have these slices of paradise all to yourself?

Antibes: A Day of Sculptures and Sea Breezes

Our Riviera adventure continued as we rolled into the sun-soaked town of Antibes. Known for its old-world charm mixed with modern-day flair, Antibes is not just another pretty spot on the Côte d’Azur—it’s a haven for art lovers and beach-goers alike. As I meandered through the bustling marina, I couldn’t help but marvel at the abundance of sculptures that seemed to pop up at every turn. Each piece, from abstract forms to lifelike figures, added a layer of cultural depth to the scenic waterfront.

The boys, meanwhile, made a beeline for the beach, their idea of a perfect day involving little more than sun, sea, and sand. Antibes’ beaches are as inviting as they come, with soft sands and crystal-clear waters making them ideal for a day of relaxation and recreation.

But it wasn’t all idle lounging. The town’s historical significance as a Greek and later Roman settlement infuses the streets with a sense of timelessness. The Picasso Museum, housed in the Grimaldi Castle where Pablo Picasso once lived and worked, stands as a cultural landmark. Though we didn’t get inside this time, the mere thought of the artistic genius that permeated these walls was inspiring.

An Enchanted Evening in Grasse and Biot

As the day wound down, a spontaneous decision saw Peter and me driving to Grasse, renowned as the world’s perfume capital. Even as we approached, the air seemed to carry a blend of floral and herbaceous notes—a prelude to the olfactory delights that awaited. We wandered through the narrow, winding streets of Grasse’s old town, where the shops displayed an array of locally produced perfumes and essential oils. The town’s deep connection with perfume manufacturing is palpable, with several perfumeries offering tours that explain their scentful art and history.

Post-Grasse, our adventure took us back to Biot for the night. This charming village, less known than its glamorous neighbors, offered a tranquil retreat with its medieval architecture and vibrant artisan community. Known for its glassworks and pottery, Biot’s artistic heritage was on full display as we strolled through its enchanting streets. The evening culminated with ice cream from a local vendor, savored as we took in the views of warmly lit cobblestone paths and stone buildings—an idyllic end to a day full of sensory delights.

Monaco at Dawn: A Sunrise Like No Other

There’s something magical about greeting the day in Monaco, the glamorous enclave nestled on the French Riviera. As the second smallest sovereign state in the world, Monaco packs a punch with its opulence and stunning seaside views. Our pre-dawn departure meant empty streets and a serene ambiance as we arrived, a stark contrast to its usual bustling state.

As the sun peeked above the horizon, it cast a golden glow over the yacht-studded marina and the famed Monte Carlo Casino, transforming the principality into a scene from a fairy tale. This was not just a sunrise; it was a display of nature accentuating human grandeur, set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean.

The early morning also allowed us to appreciate Monaco’s lush gardens and impressive architecture without the crowds. The Prince’s Palace, particularly striking in the soft morning light, offered a historical narrative that dates back centuries, standing as a proud reminder of Monaco’s regal heritage.

Cannes by Twilight: Glamour on the French Riviera

As the day transitioned into evening, we found ourselves in the dazzling city of Cannes, famous for its international film festival and epitomizing Riviera luxury. We arrived to find the city bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun, with the streets alive with the buzz of evening festivities.

Cannes is a spectacle of high fashion, luxury yachts, and posh hotels, each element telling a story of affluence and artistry. As we strolled through Le Suquet, the oldest district of Cannes, we stepped back in time. This historic hillside area, with its narrow, winding streets, offers more than just stunning views over the bay—it narrates centuries of history, from its origins as a Roman settlement to its present-day status as a cultural hotspot.

The highlight of the evening was the beach experience. As twilight deepened, the boys plunged into the Mediterranean, reveling in waters as warm as soup under a starlit sky. Cannes’ beaches are not just for sunbathing; by night, they transform into tranquil retreats where the sounds of the waves provide a soothing soundtrack to an evening of relaxation and reflection.

Both Monaco and Cannes offered their unique charms, with the serene beauty of a Monaco sunrise contrasting with the vibrant nocturnal life of Cannes. These experiences, so different yet equally enriching, highlighted the diverse allure of the French Riviera, making each moment of our journey unforgettable.

Saint-Tropez: Sun, Sea, and Celebrity Vibes

Saint-Tropez, the name synonymous with sun-kissed beaches and celebrity soirees, did not disappoint. This iconic spot on the French Riviera buzzes with an energy that could rival a double espresso. Its allure, immortalized by Brigitte Bardot in the ’60s, continues to draw a glamorous crowd. Whether it’s yachts the size of houses or boutiques that scream haute couture, Saint-Tropez is a place where the rich and fabulous come to play.

But it’s not all glitz and glamour. The town’s charm lies in its ability to hold onto its past as a humble fishing village. Meandering through the old port, where fishing boats still bob alongside luxury yachts, gives a glimpse into the layered identity of this Riviera jewel. The vibrant nightlife keeps the town buzzing well into the wee hours, but for those seeking quieter pleasures, the beaches offer sun-soaked tranquility during the day.

Èze: Medieval Magic and Sea Views

Perched high on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, Èze is a storybook village that captivates with its medieval charm and breathtaking vistas. Strolling through its cobblestone streets, you feel like you’ve stepped back in time or into a fantasy novel where each corner promises a new adventure. The renowned Exotic Garden, perched at the village’s peak, charges an €8 entry fee, which is a small price to pay for some of the most spectacular sea views on the Côte d’Azur.

Èze is not just a visual treat; its small boutiques and art galleries provide a sensory experience that blends history with modern artistic expression. The village’s ancient buildings, now home to charming shops and cozy eateries, offer a blend of past and present that’s uniquely Èze. It’s easy to see why this spot is a magnet for photographers and romantics alike.

Saint-Paul de Vence: Art and Ice Cream in Equal Measure

A stone’s throw from the glitz of the coast, Saint-Paul de Vence offers a different kind of Riviera experience. This medieval village, more spacious and laid-back than Èze, is an art lover’s paradise. With a history steeped in artistic tradition, modern creativity thrives here amidst ancient walls. Walking its streets, you’re likely to stumble upon both local artists capturing the scenic beauty and world-renowned galleries showcasing spectacular works.

The real treat, however, might just be the climb to the village top, not just for the art but for the promise of the best—and cheapest—ice cream. Picture this: a scoop of lavender honey gelato in hand as you overlook the sprawling vistas of the French countryside. It’s a delightful blend of culinary and visual arts that makes Saint-Paul de Vence a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life—like good ice cream.

A Future Plan: Nice and Beyond

Due to weather change we skipped Nice this time around, deciding to save its seaside charm and bustling boulevards for a future escapade, as its allure deserves more than just a fleeting visit.

Two weeks of Riviera revelry flew by in a flash, and soon we were homeward bound, but not before a sparkling interlude in Reims. As we bid “adieu” to the sun-soaked coast, we geared up for a change of pace and palette. Stay tuned for part 3 of our escapades, where we dive into the effervescent heart of Reims, a city fizzing with royal history and bubbling with its world-famous champagne. Expect tales of Gothic grandeur and toasts in candlelit cellars.

Whether it’s marveling at lemon sculptures in Menton or rubbing elbows with the glitterati in Cannes, the French Riviera offers a kaleidoscope of experiences. So, pack your zest for life (and maybe some sunscreen), and join us as we continue to savor every drop of this French adventure. And remember, wherever your travels take you, pace yourself—there’s always time for another scoop of gelato under the Mediterranean sun, and perhaps, a flute of champagne in the historic cellars of Reims. Stay tuned, the best is yet to come!