Soak up the sun and splash in the surf in the ritzy Riviera
The Cote d'Azur—also known as the French Riviera—has long been known as a vacation playground for the rich and famous. Stretching for 71 miles along the Mediterranean coastline in southeastern France, the region, which includes the state of Monaco, has been hosting aristocrats and royalty since the end of the 18th century. Today, it's noted for its high-end resorts, gourmet restaurants, and world-class museums. Luxurious beaches and surrounding mountains also serve as a giant playground for travelers. Get to know the region by booking a Cote d'Azur vacation rental in the region's largest city, Nice, or in the host of tiny seaside villages.
Jackpot! From casinos to zoos, there's plenty of fun on hand
The region offers tours of some grand buildings, including the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a 20th-century mansion with 9 gardens, and the Prince's Palace of Monaco. A rich arts scene includes the Musee Picasso in Antibes, housed in the famed painter's personal chateau, and the Musee Marc Chagall in Nice, a complex dedicated to the beloved French artist. If you have kids staying in your Cote d'Azur vacation rental, they'll love Nice's Parc Phoenix, a zoo with aviaries and habitats for such critters as otters and wallabies. Adults can enjoy a night out at the legendary Monte Carlo Casino.
From skiing to sailing, Cote d'Azur is a year-round playground
If you're looking for adventure along the Cote d'Azur, set sail upon the high seas on a chartered yacht or try your hand at windsurfing, sailing, water skiing, and scuba diving. Back on land, take a stroll along Nice's beachfront promenade or rent a luxury car for a drive into the winding hills. During the winter, strap on your skis and head to a nearby ski resort. Book a Cote d'Azur vacation rental for May and you can experience the region's most famous annual events: the Cannes Film Festival, and Monaco's Formula One Grand Prix motor race.
With sunshine and warm temps, it's always nice in Nice
The Cote d'Azur invites you to soak up some rays as it receives more than 300 days of annual sunshine. Summers are the warmest season, however, with daytime highs often reaching the mid-80s. Some areas, such as Nice, get drenched year-round, with up to 32 inches of total rainfall. Autumn is the wettest season, so make sure you've packed your galoshes. The region also features mild winters, with daily lows dropping into the low 40s. Snow on the coast is rare but the white stuff typically dusts the nearby mountains from November to May.
Swordfish and sandy shores—a wild watery landscape
Cote d'Azur's breathtaking scenery is dominated by the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean and a coastline dotted with a mixture of cliffs, sandy shores, and pebbly beaches. Just off the shore, you'll spot rocky outcrops and a host of small islands. Under the surface, the sea waters are teeming with tuna and swordfish, and some companies give you the chance to swim with dolphins. Trout, salmon, and bass swim in the rivers and lakes in the inland region. You'll also find numerous manicured gardens, many of which feature citrus and palm trees.
How to get to and around French Riviera
Fly into Cote d'Azur Airport (NCE), the closest airport, located 40.5 mi (65.2 km) from the city center.
If you're traveling by train, Saint-Raphael Le Dramont Station, Saint-Raphael Boulouris-sur-Mer Station and Agay Station are the main stations that serve the city. It's easy to get around French Riviera by catching a ride on the metro at Airport Terminal 2 Tram Stop, Airport Terminal 1 Tram Stop or Grand Arenas South Tram Stop.
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