How to Design a 7-Day Self-Drive Escape Along the Côte d’Azur

There’s a particular light in the Côte d’Azur. It dances differently on the water, softens the corners of centuries-old stone, and tints every lazy afternoon with a golden haze. It’s no surprise that Matisse, Chagall, Picasso—and later, poets and dreamers—were all drawn to this sliver of coastline in Southern France, where the Alps tumble into the Mediterranean and where every seaside town tells a story.

This 7-day journey is my response to the seductive rhythm of the French Riviera: a self-drive escape tracing cliff-hugging roads, pastel harbors, and hilltop villages with views worth lingering over. The towns here—Nice, Èze, Menton, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Antibes, Saint-Tropez—are close in distance but worlds apart in character. Each is a pocket of light, art, and sea breeze.

While my Provence road trip wandered through lavender fields and Roman ruins, this route shifts the palette to azur blues, whitewashed terraces, and bold, sun-drenched hues. Think chilled rosé by the bay in Villefranche-sur-Mer, a stroll through Antibes with a sketchbook in hand, or the glamour of Cannes without the red carpet pressure.

Nice will serve as the home base—a vibrant hub to launch out and loop back with ease. But don’t worry, I’ll also include alternatives for those who prefer hopping between towns for a more linear route. Whether you’re tracing a heritage trail through art museums and historic fortresses, chasing hidden coves, or just craving a week of Mediterranean stillness with the top down, this guide will help shape an unforgettable itinerary.

So, if you’re ready for a summer of scent, color, and salt-laced wind in your hair—let’s hit the road. Côte d’Azur awaits.

Côte d’Azur: Where the Sun Meets Style

The Côte d’Azur—often synonymous with the French Riviera—has long captured the imagination of artists, aristocrats, and jet-setters alike. Stretching along the southeastern curve of France from Menton to Saint-Tropez, the region blends azure waters with alpine peaks, fragrant hilltop villages, and a cultural heritage that’s as radiant as its coastlines.

The term “Côte d’Azur” was coined in the 19th century by poet Stéphen Liégeard, evoking the coastline’s surreal palette and endless sunshine. Since then, it’s been a magnet for creatives like Matisse, Fitzgerald, and Chanel, who found inspiration—and respite—here. Today, it continues to seduce travelers with its mosaic of experiences: sun-drenched beaches, cliff-hugging corniche drives, old-world towns, Michelin-starred dining, and the glint of luxury yachts dancing on the horizon.

But beyond the glamor lies texture: Roman ruins, artisanal markets, perfumeries, Provençal squares, and Riviera gardens that bloom year-round. What makes this region special isn’t just where it is—but how each town feels uniquely itself, while still part of a greater sun-kissed whole.

For this itinerary, I’ve grouped the Côte d’Azur into three sections—Eastern Riviera, Central Riviera, and Western Riviera with inland detours. This breakdown makes it easier to plan drives, rest stops, and day trips based on vibe and geography. Whether you’re an art lover, nature chaser, beach dweller, or cultural explorer, each cluster has something to offer. Let’s take a closer look at what lies in each corner of this iconic coastline.

Eastern Riviera (Alpes-Maritimes)

The Eastern Riviera is where the Alps meet the sea, creating dramatic cliffs, sweeping views, and picturesque towns that seem suspended in time. Nice makes a perfect base here: bustling yet walkable, with pebble beaches, Belle Époque facades, and local markets like Cours Saleya. Just 15 minutes away is Villefranche-sur-Mer, a postcard harbor town painted in sorbet tones, with an unhurried charm. Èze, perched high above the sea, invites slow exploration through its winding alleys and exotic gardens.

Monaco dazzles with a different rhythm—high-rise glamor, royal gardens, and Formula One flair, but still offers elegant corners like the Oceanographic Museum and Princess Grace Rose Garden. Nearby, Menton shines with mellow beauty, Baroque architecture, and its famous lemon groves. For something quieter, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is an elegant hideaway known for the coastal path to Paloma Beach and the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. This section offers both Riviera dazzle and old-world stillness—ideal for sun-soaked day trips.

Central Riviera

The Central Riviera carries the Riviera’s golden glow with a twist of creative soul. Antibes is beloved for its walled old town, daily market, and the Picasso Museum housed in a seaside château. Walk along the ramparts and you’ll feel the echo of artists who once painted here. A short drive away, Cannes is more than just red carpets. Its bayfront promenade, La Croisette, mixes high fashion with golden sands, while its summer fireworks festival brings the nights to life.

Just inland, Grasse offers an aromatic detour. As the world’s perfume capital, its historic distilleries (like Fragonard and Molinard) still bottle centuries-old techniques. Meanwhile, Saint-Paul de Vence captures the heart with cobbled streets, vineyard views, and art galleries tucked into medieval walls. It’s also home to Chagall’s final resting place—a poetic stop for art lovers. This stretch of the Riviera is textured with elegance and imagination, perfect for a day steeped in culture and coastal flair.

Western Riviera & Inland Detours

This leg of the journey feels more untamed. The Western Riviera is where the glamor thins into laid-back opulence and wild, inland beauty. Saint-Tropez, once a humble fishing village, became the Riviera’s poster child of chic after Brigitte Bardot’s arrival. Today, its narrow alleys, lively beach clubs, and painterly light keep it iconic—but it’s often best reached by ferry to dodge the coastal traffic and enjoy the view from the sea.

Venture inland to Verdon Gorge, an unexpected highlight. Dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” its turquoise waters invite kayaking and swimming, while trails lead to panoramic cliff views—a stark contrast to the Riviera’s polished promenades. For a quieter inland escape, Montauroux offers Provençal charm without the buzz, perfect for a leisurely lunch or an artisan market stroll.

This final section adds balance to your itinerary—where you can shift gears, breathe deeply, and enjoy the Riviera’s rugged side.

A Poetic and Practical Escape Along the French Riviera

Why Côte d’Azur in summer? Because this is when the region truly comes alive. From late May to early September, the Mediterranean sparkles at full volume—azure skies stretch endlessly, the bougainvillea bursts in full bloom, and outdoor cafés hum with golden hour chatter. It’s a season not just to visit, but to linger. The museums are open late, festivals light up the coast, and even the tiniest villages host evening markets or live jazz beneath the stars. Yes, it’s popular—but there’s a reason.

This blog offers a curated yet flexible 7-day road trip itinerary along the Côte d’Azur: part inspiration, part navigation. You’ll experience the stretch from Menton to Saint-Tropez, blending coastal drives, cliffside villages, hidden beaches, and art-filled towns. By basing yourself in Nice (or optionally Antibes), the itinerary gives you room to customize: stretch a day out, combine stops, or swap locations based on your mood, energy, or travel style. For those preferring a more immersive stop, there are short getaway suggestions too—like overnighting in Saint-Tropez or detouring inland to Verdon Gorge.

Pre-Planning Your French Riviera Road Trip

Best Time to Go: Late May to early September. Expect dry, sunny weather, warm waters, and lively festivals. May and early June are ideal for fewer crowds and still-lush spring landscapes, while July and August bring a buzzier beach scene.

Car Rental Tips: Plan to pick up your rental car on Day 2. Why? Nice is well-connected by public transport, and the city center is not car-friendly. Start with walking tours and museums, then rent when you’re ready to explore the region.

Where to Base Yourself: Nice is central, walkable, and offers easy train or road access to both eastern and western destinations. Antibes is a quieter alternative with a more artistic flair. Both towns work beautifully—choose based on your pace.

Driving & Parking Tips: Coastal roads are stunning but narrow—leave extra time for scenic pauses. Use underground car parks in major towns. For hilltop villages, park at the base and enjoy the climb—it’s part of the experience. Local signage is mostly clear, but GPS is essential. Also, avoid peak hours (especially weekends) on the Corniche roads.

Day 1: Arrival in Nice
Where France Meets Italy by the Sea

Nice doesn’t quite feel like the rest of France—and that’s exactly its charm. With pastel façades, vibrant markets, and streets lined with palm trees, the city carries a distinct Italian soul. It’s no coincidence: for centuries, Nice belonged to the House of Savoy before it officially became part of France in 1860. That cultural blend is still alive in the architecture, the dialect, and even the food—socca meets pan bagnat in a place where Mediterranean rhythm defines daily life.

After arrival, there’s no rush. This is your first taste of the Côte d’Azur, so settle in and let the pace soften. A late afternoon stroll along the Promenade des Anglais is the perfect way to stretch your legs after a flight or train ride. Palm-lined and open to the sea, this iconic stretch hums with local life—cyclists, street performers, and pétanque players under the setting sun.

As golden hour arrives, make your way up to Castle Hill (Colline du Château). There’s no actual castle anymore, but the views? Breathtaking. From here, Nice unfolds below—its ochre rooftops, glinting sea, and curved bay form a postcard you’ll remember long after you leave.

If you have extra time, Nice is worth lingering. In future articles, I’ll dive deeper into its markets, museums, and the enchanting Marc Chagall National Museum, where art and spirituality converge. But for now—breathe in the salt air, savor your first glass of rosé, and let the Riviera ease you into its rhythm.

Day 2: Villefranche-sur-Mer & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
A Day of Color and Coastline

From Nice, hop on the local TER train—just a 10-minute ride along the coast brings you to Villefranche-sur-Mer, one of the Riviera’s most photogenic harbor towns. The station drops you right into a postcard: faded ochre and coral facades cascading down to a glittering bay, fishing boats bobbing in water so clear it looks painted.

Spend your morning wandering the Old Town, where narrow alleyways open up to charming squares and quiet chapels. Don’t miss the Rue Obscure, a medieval covered street hidden beneath the houses. If you’re lucky to be here on a market day (usually Saturdays), browse the stalls for Provençal produce and local crafts under striped umbrellas.

From there, either walk the scenic coastal path (about 45 minutes) or catch Bus 15 to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. This peninsula is a pocket of understated luxury, home to some of the Riviera’s most secluded beaches. Head straight to Paloma Beach—framed by pine trees and steep cliffs, it’s ideal for a dip, a lazy lunch, or simply a moment of stillness.

If time allows, step into the rose-hued fantasy of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Overlooking the sea, the villa is filled with art and surrounded by themed gardens that bloom in theatrical harmony.

Return to Nice in the evening—train, bus, or rideshare all work well. You’ll arrive just in time for apéro and the lingering glow of a perfect day, salt still in your hair and light still in your eyes.

Day 3: Èze & Monaco
Scents, Cliffs, and the City of Wealth

Start your day in Èze, a village that feels suspended between sky and sea. Perched high above the Mediterranean, its cobblestone alleys curl through a maze of art studios, ivy-covered walls, and secret viewpoints. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the Nietzsche Trail—a steep but rewarding hike from Èze-sur-Mer to the hilltop village, just as the philosopher did during his time here. For a gentler arrival, the scenic drive from Nice takes only 30 minutes.

I joined a local tour that ended at Fragonard Parfumeur, where I explored the secrets of scent making. This area, not far from Grasse, is famed for its microclimate ideal for growing perfume flowers like jasmine and rose.

In the afternoon, head to Monaco—a microstate of glamour packed into steep terrain and narrow streets. It feels surreal: a city built vertically, with terraces and towers cascading like Hong Kong’s mid-levels (read my thoughts on that here: Free Viewpoints in Hong Kong).

Arrive at Monaco-Ville (Le Rocher) by early afternoon to catch the Changing of the Guard at 11:55 AM outside the Prince’s Palace. Afterward, wander the Jardin Exotique, stroll the Port Hercule, or sip coffee near the yachts while imagining which one belongs to a Formula 1 driver.

In summer, Monaco hosts a rotating calendar of concerts, exhibitions, and the afterglow of May’s legendary Grand Prix. Whether you return to Nice or stay overnight, don’t miss a walk through Casino Square—the Monte Carlo Casino gleams with Belle Époque elegance, still channeling the drama of Bond films and billionaires.

Perfume Making in Èze and Provence

Èze sits on the fragrant edge of France’s perfume belt. Fragonard, one of the most historic perfumeries in the region, offers free guided tours of its workshop—just minutes from the village center. You’ll learn how natural oils are extracted, blended, and aged to create signature scents. For a deeper dive, some perfumeries even offer DIY workshops where you can craft your own fragrance, a perfect Riviera keepsake.

The perfume heritage here ties closely to Grasse, the perfume capital of the world, just an hour away. It’s also where iconic brands like L’Occitane en Provence source ingredients for their skincare and scent lines. If you’re planning a Provence itinerary, consider adding a sensory stop in Grasse to your route—see my Provence road trip guide for more ideas: Provence 7-Day Itinerary.

Day 4: Menton & Antibes
From Lemon-Scented Mornings to Sunset on the Cape

Menton is often overlooked in favor of its flashier neighbors, but for me, it’s a Riviera jewel with an Italian soul. Tucked near the French-Italian border, the town is blessed with an almost subtropical microclimate, giving it lush gardens and a reputation as the “City of Lemons.” Start your morning in the Old Town, where apricot and coral-hued buildings climb steep streets lined with shuttered windows and cascading bougainvillea. Visit the Basilique Saint-Michel for its baroque façade and sweeping views over the bay.

If you’re after a slower pace, Plage des Sablettes offers a relaxed swim and is just steps from the promenade. For lunch, try Mirazur, a Michelin-starred restaurant (advance booking needed), or Le Petit Port for something more casual, with local seafood and harbor views.

In the afternoon, drive to Antibes, a town that pulses with creativity and salt air. Once a fortified outpost, it became a bohemian haven when Pablo Picasso took residence in the Grimaldi Castle, now home to the Musée Picasso. His works here reflect the sea, the sun, and his intimate connection with the Riviera.

Wander the old town’s ramparts for views of the yachts in Port Vauban, Europe’s largest marina. Keep an eye out for the Nomade sculpture by Jaume Plensa—an enormous figure made of letters, gazing silently out to sea. Also explore the town’s emerging street art scene, with colorful murals tucked into corners near Place Nationale and Rue Thuret.

End your day at Cap d’Antibes, where a quiet walk at golden hour along the Sentier du Littoral feels like stepping into a painting. The sea sparkles, the sky softens, and the Côte d’Azur whispers her timeless lullaby.

Antibes Art Trail + Foodie Finds

Antibes is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Begin your art walk near the Musée Picasso, then meander through the old town toward Place Nationale. Keep an eye out for colorful murals on Rue Aubernon, creative shopfronts along Rue Thuret, and the playful “Le Mur” installations, which change with visiting artists. Don’t miss the Nomade sculpture at the Bastion Saint-Jaume—an iconic photo stop.

For food lovers, the Marché Provençal is a must—open mornings in Cours Masséna, it’s brimming with local cheese, olives, spices, and tapenade. For a scenic meal, try Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit (Michelin-starred) or Bistrot du Coin for something more casual and charming. End with a scoop from Gelateria Del Pinguino, a local favorite.

Whether you’re sketching by the sea or sipping rosé at a sun-drenched café, Antibes offers a creative buzz that’s utterly Riviera.

Day 5: Cannes & Saint-Paul de Vence
Film Glamour and Artistic Soul

Start your morning with a stroll along La Croisette, Cannes’ famous seaside promenade. Lined with designer boutiques, elegant seaside hotels, and swaying palms, it radiates that distinct Riviera glamor. I couldn’t resist stepping onto the iconic red carpet stairs at the Palais des Festivals—yes, even off-season, it’s open for photos, and it’s easy to imagine the camera flashes and couture from the world’s most prestigious film event.

The Cannes Film Festival, held each May since 1946, put this once-sleepy fishing village on the global map. Beyond the celebrity spotlight, Cannes offers golden beaches (Plage du Midi is less touristy), high-end shopping, and chic cafés ideal for people-watching. In summer, the city hosts the Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique, an international fireworks competition lighting up the bay on select nights—check schedules ahead!

In the afternoon, head inland to Saint-Paul de Vence, one of the oldest medieval towns in Provence. Cobbled lanes, stone arches, and art galleries draw you in like a living canvas. The town’s soul, though, is best felt in the Cemetery of Saint-Paul, where Marc Chagall rests.

The Russian-French artist spent his final years here, surrounded by the landscape that inspired his poetic, dreamlike works of color and faith.

End the day with a sunset drink on a terrace, where you can hear the echo of painters, poets, and filmmakers who’ve passed through this timeless corridor of creativity and beauty.

Day 6: Verdon Gorge Day Trip
Lavender Roads and Limestone Majesty

After several days tracing the coastline, today’s inland escape to the Verdon Gorge offers a striking shift in tone and terrain. Expect dramatic cliffs, winding roads, and cool turquoise waters—a sensory contrast to the Riviera’s urban elegance. It’s a longer drive (about 2.5 hours from Nice), but worth every scenic curve.

Break up the journey with a coffee stop in Castellane, a medieval town perched beneath a looming rock face and marked by its 12th-century chapel, Notre-Dame du Roc. It’s the gateway to the Verdon region and a good spot to stretch your legs.

From here, follow the Route des Crêtes near La Palud-sur-Verdon for jaw-dropping viewpoints over the gorge. Often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” the Verdon Gorge cuts deep into limestone cliffs, with the Verdon River slicing through at breathtaking depths of up to 700 meters. Hawks circle above; kayaks and pedal boats float below like colorful dots.

Continue to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a postcard-worthy village tucked into a cliffside ravine. Famous for its faïence ceramics and a golden star that hangs suspended above the village (a mystery wrapped in legend), it’s the perfect spot for a scenic lunch or picnic. Below, Lac de Sainte-Croix gleams in shades of jade and turquoise—this man-made lake is a serene retreat for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply cooling off with a swim. The waters are remarkably clear, surrounded by pine-covered slopes and sandy coves that invite lazy afternoons. If you’re up for it, several hiking trails loop around the gorge and lakeside, offering panoramic views and moments of total quiet. Rent a kayak from the nearby Pont du Galetas, where you can glide directly into the narrow mouth of the Verdon Gorge itself—an unforgettable way to experience the canyon from below, with soaring cliffs rising dramatically on either side.

If you’re visiting in late June to mid-July, keep an eye out for lavender fields blooming around Roumoules and Valensole Plateau—a bonus photo stop if you time it right.

This detour offers a deeper breath, a pause, and the wild beauty of Provence at its most majestic. You may even consider spending the night nearby before looping back or continuing your road trip westward.

Day 7: Saint-Tropez by Boat
A Glamorous Finale on the Water

No Côte d’Azur journey feels quite complete without setting foot in Saint-Tropez. Once a humble fishing village, it catapulted into global fame in the 1950s thanks to Brigitte Bardot and the French New Wave. Since then, it has become a staple of Southern France, synonymous with sun-kissed elegance, celebrity summers, and that irresistible mix of rustic charm and Riviera glitz.

While driving into Saint-Tropez is possible, it’s often plagued by traffic—especially in high season. A far better (and more scenic) option is to arrive by boat. Ferries operate from Cannes and Sainte-Maxime, and while direct ferries from Nice are less frequent, you can connect via Cannes. For a splashier entrance, chartering a private boat or yacht from Antibes, Cannes, or Nice is very doable—with options ranging from half-day skippered rides to full-on yacht days. Cruising along the coast with champagne in hand is as Saint-Tropez as it gets.

Once ashore, explore the Old Port, where luxury yachts bob beside pastel buildings and waterside cafés. Wander into the village to find boutiques, art galleries, and the Citadel for panoramic views. For lunch or a laid-back afternoon, the beach clubs on Pampelonne Beach—like Club 55 or Nikki Beach—offer the full Riviera experience: sunbeds, seafood, and DJ-backed ambiance.

Whether you head back to Nice in the evening or choose to stay overnight, Saint-Tropez delivers a fitting finale: a place where sun, style, and the sea meet in dazzling harmony.

Practical Tips: Boat & Yacht Rental in the French Riviera

Renting a boat or yacht is a luxurious yet accessible way to explore the Riviera. From Nice, Antibes, or Cannes, you can rent anything from a small motorboat (€150–€300/day) to a skippered yacht (€600–€2,000/day).

• License Needed? You don’t need a boat license if you hire a boat with a skipper.
• How to Book? Use trusted platforms like Click&Boat, SamBoat, or local marinas.
• What’s Included? Fuel is often not included—expect an extra €100–€200 depending on distance.
• Best for? Saint-Tropez day trips, coastal cruising, or romantic sunset sails.

Pro Tip: Book in advance during peak season (June–August), and ask about extras like snacks, paddleboards, or champagne onboard. For groups, splitting the cost makes the experience surprisingly affordable.

Whether you’re after adventure or Riviera glam, a boat day adds unforgettable sparkle to your Côte d’Azur trip.

Other Hidden Gems and Places Worth Exploring…

The French Riviera is full of surprises—far beyond its glittering coastline and iconic cities. Honestly, there’s so much more to discover, and I already feel the pull to return and explore these gems deeper. Have you been to any of them? Or is there a favorite spot you think I should visit next time? I’d love to hear your suggestions!

Grasse: The world’s perfume capital – I’d love to join a hands-on perfume-making workshop and wander through its aromatic historic center.

Montauroux: A peaceful hilltop village inland from Cannes, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. The perfect slow escape.

Menton: Right on the Italian border, this lemon-loving seaside town is known for its pastel facades, citrus gardens, and Belle Époque vibe. Deserves its own full-day visit!

Roumoules & Valensole Plateau: Lavender dreams—timing a visit to catch full bloom in July would be magical.

Èze’s Nietzsche Path Hike: A steep climb with a philosophical twist—ready to conquer it next time with better shoes, a full water bottle, and a few water bottle friendly stickers to personalize the journey!

This list is just the beginning. Next time, I’ll dig even deeper into the hidden pockets of the Riviera. Let’s keep discovering together.

Côte d’Azur Travel Tips

Planning for coastal days and inland adventures requires smart packing and insider savvy:

• 

  What to Pack: Include both beachwear and layers—linen shirts, a windbreaker, and comfortable walking shoes for villages and countryside treks. A pair of water shoes is invaluable at rocky beaches like Plage Mala or La Réserve. Don’t forget a compact daypack, refillable bottle, and microfiber towel. If you’re wearing eyeglasses, be sure to bring them along for your trip. Whether you need them for driving, sightseeing, or simply enjoying the views, they’ll help keep you comfortable throughout your adventure.

• Best Beaches for Swimming vs. Views: For pure swimming, head to Plage de la Garoupe in Antibes or Plage des Sablettes in Menton—gentle sands and calm waters. For scenic ambiance, try Plage Mala (Cap d’Ail) or Plage de Passable (Cap Ferrat)—hidden coves framed by cliffs and pines.
• How to Avoid Crowds (without “going early”): Explore lesser-known beach coves such as La Petite Afrique (Beaulieu‑sur‑Mer) or Portet Cove on Île Sainte‑Marguerite—accessible mostly by boat, making them naturally quieter. Consider off‑peak ferry trips to Porquerolles Island, where cars are banned and beaches like Plage Notre‑Dame stay serene even in summer.
• Smart Transport Tip: Use regional TER trains and buses for short hops like Nice to Villefranche or Menton—less hassle than parking, and locals often favor them for beach access.

This journey through the Côte d’Azur was more than just a scenic getaway—it was a sensory experience filled with sun-drenched coastlines, fragrant gardens, vibrant art, and the joy of uncovering stories behind each village. From walking La Croisette to stepping onto the red carpet in Cannes, to climbing narrow alleys in Èze and marveling at the turquoise Verdon Gorge, every stop surprised me in a new way.

One of my favorite hidden moments? Watching the golden light hit the rooftops of Menton while locals quietly sipped coffee—so ordinary, yet so timeless. It reminded me that magic lives in the in-between moments.

Would I return? In a heartbeat. There’s still so much to uncover—aromas to bottle in Grasse, sunsets to chase in Montauroux, lavender fields to wander near Roumoules. The Riviera leaves you longing, not just for places, but for the feeling it gives you.