The Côte d’Azur is a beautiful place to relax, explore, and enjoy life by the sea. You can begin your journey in Nice, where the daily market at Cours Saleya bursts with color. Stroll through Old Town with its pastel facades and flower-filled alleys and explore the bold works at the Musée Matisse in a 17th-century villa in Cimiez. Climb Castle Hill for panoramic views over Nice’s terracotta rooftops and the Baie des Anges, a sweeping Mediterranean bay framed by deep blue water and the Promenade des Anglais. In nearby Antibes, visit the Picasso Museum, set inside the Château Grimaldi, where you’ll find paintings, ceramics, and sketches the artist created during his stay in 1946. Afterward, walk along the 16th-century sea walls with views of the Cap d’Antibes, then explore the bustling port, home to some of the most impressive yachts on the Mediterranean.

 Take a private guided tour through Cannes’ film district, walking the Boulevard de la Croisette where red carpets roll out each May. Step inside the Palais des Festivals and explore the legacy of cinema in the city that hosts the world’s most famous film festival. Board a private boat from the marina to the Îles de Lérins for pine trails, clear waters, and a peaceful 5th-century monastery on Sainte Marguerite where the monks produce wine. In Èze, explore stone alleyways lined with perfumeries and local crafts before reaching panoramic views from the Jardin Botanique d’Eze, the exotic gardens located on the site of a medieval fortress. End the day in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, browsing intimate galleries in a village steeped in artistic history.

 In Monaco, tour the Prince’s Palace, where the State Apartments feature ornate frescoes, gilded rooms, and centuries of royal history. Step into the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo, known for its Belle Époque architecture and James Bond allure. End your day with dinner at the Maybourne Roveria with stunning views, overlooking superyachts and the softly lit streets of the Old Town.

 For wine and food lovers, private tastings can be arranged in the hillside vineyards at Château De Crémat, just outside Nice, known for crisp whites or in Bandol, a coastal wine region west of Toulon, famous for bold rosés made from Mourvèdre grapes. Savor Niçoise specialties like socca and pan bagnat, or enjoy a fresh seafood lunch by the water in Villefranche-sur-Mer.

Families can explore the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, enjoy coastal train rides, or sail to hidden coves. For active travelers, scenic hikes around Cap Ferrat or bike rides along flat seaside paths reveal the Riviera’s natural charm. A lunch stop at Paloma Beach, named after Pablo Picasso’s daughter.