One Week in the French Riviera: The Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary

The French Riviera, or Côte d'Azur, is one of Europe's most beautiful destinations. With glamorous coastal towns, charming medieval villages, crystal-clear Mediterranean waters and outstanding food, it's easy to see why visitors return year after year.

This seven-day itinerary combines the Riviera's iconic highlights with some of its hidden gems, allowing you to experience the region at a relaxed pace.

Whether you stay at Villa 45 in La Colle-sur-Loup or Cove d'Azur in Théoule-sur-Mer, you'll be perfectly placed to explore the very best of the French Riviera.

Day 1 – Arrive and Discover Your Local Area

After arriving, settle into your Cove Luxury Villas home and enjoy a gentle introduction to the Riviera.

If you're staying at Villa 45

Spend the afternoon exploring the charming village of La Colle-sur-Loup. Wander through its quiet streets, enjoy a coffee at a local café and soak up the Provençal atmosphere.

If time allows, visit nearby Saint-Paul de Vence, one of France's most beautiful hilltop villages.

If you're staying at Cove d'Azur

Take a walk along the waterfront in Théoule-sur-Mer, relax on one of its peaceful beaches and enjoy your first Mediterranean sunset with dinner overlooking the sea.

Day 2 – Nice

Spend the day exploring the capital of the French Riviera.

Highlights include:

• Promenade des Anglais

• Old Town (Vieux Nice)

• Cours Saleya Market

• Castle Hill

• Place Masséna

• Local cafés and boutiques

Enjoy lunch overlooking the Mediterranean before strolling through the colourful streets of Old Nice.

Day 3 – Monaco and Èze

Today combines two of the Riviera's most spectacular destinations.

Begin your morning in Èze, wandering its medieval streets and visiting the Exotic Garden for breathtaking coastal views.

After lunch, continue to Monaco.

Don't miss:

• Prince's Palace

• Monte Carlo Casino

• Port Hercule

• Oceanographic Museum

• Luxury boutiques

• Formula One Grand Prix circuit

Finish the day with dinner overlooking Monaco's famous harbour.

Day 4 – Antibes and Cannes

Start in the historic seaside town of Antibes.

Explore:

• The Old Town

• Picasso Museum

• Port Vauban

• Local markets

• Ramparts overlooking the sea

In the afternoon, continue to Cannes.

Walk along La Croisette, admire the luxury hotels, browse designer boutiques and enjoy dinner by the marina.

Day 5 – Saint-Tropez

Dedicate today to one of the Riviera's most iconic destinations.

Explore:

• The Old Port

• Place des Lices

• Designer boutiques

• Citadel of Saint-Tropez

• Beach clubs

• Waterfront restaurants

If you're visiting during summer, arrive early to make the most of the day.

Day 6 – Théoule-sur-Mer and the Esterel Massif

Spend the day discovering one of the Riviera's hidden treasures.

Highlights include:

• Théoule's beaches

• Coastal walks

• Boat trips

• Paddleboarding

• Snorkelling

• Scenic drives through the Esterel Massif

• Sunset viewpoints over the Mediterranean

The striking red volcanic cliffs of the Esterel provide some of the Riviera's most spectacular scenery.

Day 7 – Relax and Discover Local Life

Your final day is the perfect opportunity to slow down.

Depending on where you're staying, you might:

From Villa 45

• Visit local Provençal markets

• Explore nearby villages such as Tourrettes-sur-Loup or Gourdon

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the countryside

• Sample local wines and olive oils

From Cove d'Azur

• Spend a relaxing morning by the sea

• Take a final swim in the Mediterranean

• Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant

• Watch the sunset before your departure

It's the perfect way to end an unforgettable week on the Côte d'Azur.

Optional Day Trips

If you have extra time, consider visiting:

• Villefranche-sur-Mer

• Cap Ferrat

• Menton

• Grasse (the perfume capital)

• Gorges du Verdon

• Porquerolles Island

• Mougins

• Biot

Each destination offers its own unique charm and can easily be added to a longer holiday.

Where to Stay on the French Riviera

Choosing the right base makes exploring the French Riviera much easier.

Villa 45 in La Colle-sur-Loup is ideal for visitors wanting easy access to Nice, Monaco, Saint-Paul de Vence and the beautiful villages of Provence.

Cove d'Azur in Théoule-sur-Mer is perfect for those who want to enjoy the Mediterranean coastline, beaches, Cannes, the Esterel Massif and scenic boat trips.

Many guests even choose to divide their holiday between both properties to experience two different sides of the Riviera.

Discover the Best of the Côte d'Azur

A week on the French Riviera offers the perfect balance of relaxation, culture, adventure and luxury.

From glamorous coastal cities to peaceful hilltop villages, every day reveals another unforgettable experience.

At Cove Luxury Villas, our carefully curated homes place you at the heart of the Riviera, allowing you to experience this remarkable region in comfort, style and at your own pace.