Understand

The Riviera, known for its glamorous destinations like St. Tropez, Monaco, and Cannes, offers much more than meets the eye. Venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden gems of this enchanting region. Explore the charming perched villages of Eze and Gourdon, where time seems to stand still. Immerse yourself in the world of perfumery in Grasse and witness the artistry of glass blowers in Biot. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Vallauris and witness the skill of local potters. The Riviera has inspired legendary artists like Picasso, whose masterpieces grace the walls of local museums and galleries. However, popularity comes at a price. During the busy summer months, particularly in July and August, the Riviera can become overcrowded, especially along the strip between the A8 Autoroute and the coast. Events like the Cannes Film Festival drive up prices, making it a challenging time to visit. Luckily, there are hidden treasures like the tranquil Gorges du Loup and the serene village of Gourdon, where you can escape the chaos and enjoy the beauty of the Riviera.

Get in

The Riviera is a popular destination with various transportation options for travelers. If you prefer driving, the recommended route is to take the A8 motorway from Aix-en-Provence or Italy. However, be aware that the Alpes Maritimes region is known for its hilly terrain, so it may not be suitable for those prone to car-sickness. Alternatively, if you don't mind a slower but scenic journey, driving from Geneva, Avignon, or Turin is an option. For those who prefer public transportation, major towns like Cannes and Nice can be reached by express trains from Paris. There are also train connections from Genoa and other cities in Italy to Nice. However, it is worth mentioning that with the rise of European Discount Airlines such as Easyjet, the French Railways (SNCF) often offer competitive fares from northern France.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

The first popular French dish is Ratatouille, a colorful vegetable stew traditionally made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and seasoned with herbs such as thyme and basil. This hearty, non-meat dish is typically served alongside grilled meats or fish.

Another famous French dish is Coq au Vin, a braised chicken dish that originated in Burgundy. It involves marinating chicken pieces in red wine with mushrooms, bacon, onions, and garlic before slow-cooking them until tender and flavorful. The final dish is often garnished with parsley and served with potatoes, noodles, or bread.

Lastly, the iconic French dish, Croissants, are flaky, buttery pastries made from layers of laminated dough, which are then curved into a crescent shape and traditionally served for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Although they are not typically a savory or sweet dish, croissants can be filled with various ingredients like ham and cheese (called a jambon-beurre) or almond paste and sugar (an almond croissant).

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing