Experience the French Riviera road trip in autumn to discover the Côte d’Azur’s quieter, colourful side
The French Riviera may be most associated with the famous Cannes Film Festival and the slew of celebrities that flock its shores, but its charm has worldwide allure. Gorgeous maritime villages, villas that once served as artists’ refuge, Mediterranean weather and cuisine, iconic beaches and the absolute charm of the Provence make the riviera a timeless holiday destination.
The glamorous French Riviera is often pictured in full summer swing — yachts, film stars and beach crowds. But when the season cools and the influx thins out, the region transforms. Mild autumn temperatures, fewer tourists and better value make September to November the ideal time for a relaxed road trip along the colours and curves of the coast.
We have compiled an itinerary covering seven must-visit stops in autumn.
First stop: Villefranche-sur-Mer
One of France's most beautiful ports, Villefranche-sur-Mer enchants with its crystal-clear waters and colourful houses.
The stunning colour contrasts of Villefranche-sur-Mer’s coast
In the old town, the Church of Saint-Michel dots the heart of the village with its colourful façade; meanwhile, the Chapel of Saint Pierre captivates with Jean Cocteau’s unique taste and decor. Just a few steps away is the perfectly preserved 1554 citadel founded by the Duke of Savoy. Originally built to guard the port, the citadel now houses three art museums: the Volti Museum dedicated to the art of sculpture; the Goetz-Boumeester Collection housing a hundred artworks, notably those of Miró and Picasso; and the Roux collection, illustrating daily life from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance!
Stay at the charming Villa MonTLilin and explore the nearby Cap Ferrat peninsula, home to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Villa Les Cèdres, and the beautiful Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, which hosts the Pumpkin Festival on 1 November.
Travel Tip: If you feel like extending the stay, you can also visit the delightful Menton and the famous Monte Carlo a few kilometres from Villefranche!
Second stop: Nice
If you're travelling by plane, Nice could be your first stop on this road trip, instead of being the second. But in any case, the fifth-largest city in France totally deserves a longer stay.
Lose yourself in the colourful alleys of Nice’s old town
Start exploring by strolling along the Promenade des Anglais, where the buzzing waterfront and elegant Belle Epoque-style buildings recreate the iconic image of Nice. If you prefer, you can also cycle along it, as there is a convenient bicycle path. During the walk, stop at one of the many small restaurants along the promenade and taste the famous Niçoise cuisine. Top the day off by catching a gorgeous sunset from la Colline du Château and then heading to one of the bars in the old town.
Since Nice has so much to offer, spend a second day exploring its old town, filled with colourful houses and lively streets. Stroll through Cours Saleya, the famous food and flower market held almost every morning (except Mondays). From the city centre, you can walk or take a bus to the elegant residential district of Cimiez, known for its gardens and museums.
Alternatively, stay in the heart of Nice and explore Place du Palais de Justice and Place Rossetti, home to the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Reparata and one of the city’s best ice-cream parlours, Azzurro.
Third stop: Cagnes-sur-Mer
Let's continue the trip and stop at nearby Cagnes-sur-Mer, which will enchant you with its two historic centres: the medieval style Haut-de-Cagnes and the picturesque Cros-de-Cagnes overlooking the sea. The more modern and sophisticated part is Cagnes Ville.
Renoir's House Museum in Cagnes-sur-Mer
In Haut-de-Cagnes, enter the world of fine arts at the Grimaldi Castle, a 14th-century fortress which became a sumptuous stately home around 1620 and now houses the Olive Museum, the Solidor Donation, and several paintings by famous artists as well as numerous exhibitions of contemporary art. In Cros-de-Cagnes, a visit to the quaint Chapelle Saint-Pierre can be combined with a lunch, savouring excellent seafood in one of the many restaurants in the area. Weather permitting, you can also stop to sunbathe on one of the beaches. But if not, take the bus to Cagnes Ville and soak up the artistic ambience of the Renoir House Museum, where the famous French painter drew inspiration for his paintings!
Travel Tip: Other places of interest in Haut-de-Cagnes are the Chapelle Notre Dame de la Protection and the Musée du Bijou Contemporain.
If you would like to stay here for a few days to get in touch with your artistic side, the delightful Maison Sans Délai might be just the home for you!
Fourth stop: Antibes
Famous for its cultural and historical heritage as well as beaches and crystal-clear sea, Antibes is definitely worth a stop.
The Promenade de l'Amiral de Grasse in Antibes’ vieille ville
Start by visiting the Vieille Ville where the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Platea d'Antibes with its Provençal Baroque façade, and the Picasso Museum, captivate the soul and the eyes. Explore the old town, lose yourself in the medieval alleyways or stop at one of the many bistros like the cosy Le Bistrot du Coin to grab a quick, delicious bite. From the Picasso Museum, stroll along the ancient walls to the Promenade de l'Amiral de Grasse and admire the stunning sea view.
If you want to pick up some tasty souvenirs, the Provençal Market on Cours Masséna is the perfect venue on any morning from Tuesday to Sunday. Afterwards, you can stop for a dip at the Salis Beach. Then from the centre, move towards the Cap d'Antibes for another beautiful view from the Sentier de Tire-Poils, or visit the Villa Eilenroc and its park, where 2000 roses grow.
Too much to do for one day? Take a look at our holiday homes in the area! Fifth stop: Juan-Les-Pins
Administratively considered a suburb of Antibes, Juan-Les-Pins enjoys a much livelier atmosphere that contrasts with the quiet beauty of Antibes. The town is especially famous for its nightlife. Although in July and August, it is usually very crowded, but in September Juan-Les-Pins is much more enjoyable.
Juan-les-Pins’ modern and vibrant atmosphere
Indulge in shopping or start by having an aperitif at boulevard Édouard Baudoin, where the Promenade du Soleil begins. Then continue to the fountain of the bather to end on Rue du Dr Fabre, where Palais Biagini invites the eyes to admire a remarkable mix of styles between Baroque and Art Deco. If you prefer greenery, you can enjoy a picnic in the Parc de la Pineta and visit the Parc Exflora in the west of Juan-les-Pins.
However, at this glitzy and renowned resort on the French Riviera, the focal point of allure is the Art Deco Hôtel Belles Rives. This elegant establishment played host to extravagant gatherings, orchestrated by none other than F. Scott Fitzgerald, whose lavish events ultimately led Fitzgerald to pen his iconic work, "The Great Gatsby."
If you think the livelier atmosphere of Juan-Les-Pins might suit you, have a look at one of our holiday homes here. Sixth stop: Cannes
Home to the prestigious film festival, Cannes’ fine sandy beaches, which are very crowded in July and August, are much more pleasant in September. A stroll along the Promenade de la Croisette is perfect to admire the promenade and a slew of luxury hotels, shops and restaurants. At the western end of the Croisette, the Souquet district (the oldest in Cannes) is home to Marché Forville and Musée de la Castre, filled with objects and works of art from all over the world.
Jetsetter's favourite Promenade de la Croisette in Cannes
Situated at the foot of the Suquet hill is the Vieux Port, where you can relax in a few bars or restaurants such as l'Assiette Provençale, a small but renowned restaurant offering excellent cuisine at affordable prices. Once refreshed, you can take the ferry to visit the Island of St Marguerite. But if you want to indulge in a shopping spree, Rue d'Antibes, which runs parallel to the Croisette, has tons of affordable shops. If you still need time to explore this beautiful city, all you have to do is book any of the convenient holiday homes here. Seventh stop: Grasse
Located a short distance away from the bustling coastline of the French Riviera, the perfume capital of the region was initially known for its less pleasant leather tanneries. However, during the seventeenth century, a brilliant idea emerged – selling scented gloves.
The lovely Grasse village in the French Riviera
Since then, Grasse has flourished, showcasing a delightful mix of medieval and Renaissance buildings amid vast fields of enchanting purple lavender.
Presently, this charming town is home to an impressive array of 30 perfume factories. Among the notable ones are Galimard, Molinard and Fragonard, all offering complimentary tours of their aromatic workshops, where the sweet fragrances come to life!
Travel Tip: A visit to perfume factories can be an original Valentine’s Day celebration.
Before the trip ends, here are some tips from the locals for a French Riviera Road Trip in Autumn:
- Enjoy the local cuisine: Autumn is a great time to savour regional specialities like ratatouille, bouillabaisse, socca, and fresh seafood.
- Sample the local wines: The French Riviera is also known for its vineyards, so be sure to try some of the delicious local wines.
- Be prepared for varying weather: While autumn (September-November) is generally mild, it's a good idea to pack layers as temperatures can fluctuate, especially in the higher inland areas.
Travel Tip: Extend the end of summer at the French Riviera by planning your autumn road trip!
