From the sun-kissed streets of Nice to the coastal charm of Antibes, this 7-day itinerary blends glamorous city life, hidden beaches, and cultural gems. Hike cliffside trails, wander art-filled Old Towns, dip into turquoise waters, and toast the sunset over the Med.

A breakfast table is laid, with rocks and a sunlit ocean in the background. Two people are among the rocks looking out to sea. — A laid breakfast table in the Cote D’Azur, looking onto the ocean

Day 1: Arrive in Nice: Coastal Glamour Begins

Flight: UK to Nice (NCE)

Transfer: The cheapest and quickest way is to get the tram.

Arrival: Check in to your Nice hotel, unpack, and take a deep breath. You’re on holiday!

Afternoon: Explore Vieux Nice’s narrow streets and the flower market (Cours Saleya).

Evening: Sunset walk along the Promenade des Anglais, followed by dinner at a local bistro.

Day 2: Art & Views in Nice

Morning: Visit to Colline du Château for panoramic views. Explore the Matisse Museum and/or Marc Chagall Museum before lunch if you have time.

Afternoon: Take time out for a few hours at the Plage Beau Rivage, and perhaps take a dip in the Mediterranean!

Evening: Dinner at a wine bar or hidden terrace in the Old Town.

Day 3: Day Trip to Èze & Monaco

An elevated view over Monaco marina, with large yachts coming and going. Hills and buildings surround. — Overlooking the marina in Monaco

Transport: Take a morning bus or train to Èze Village.

Morning: Visit the exotic gardens and Fragonard perfumery.

Afternoon: Continue to Monaco. See the palace, marina, and Oceanographic Museum.

Evening: Return to Nice for the evening. Try some rooftop bars for sunset drinks.

Day 4: Travel to Antibes – Charming Change of Pace

Transport: Short train ride (~30 min) to Antibes.

Morning: Check in for 3 nights in Antibe Old Town or Cap d’Antibes. Stroll the Port Vauban and medieval ramparts.

Afternoon: Visit the Picasso Museum inside the Château Grimaldi.

Evening: Relax at Plage de la Gravette.

Day 5: Cap d’Antibes Coastal Walk & Beach

Morning: Hike on the Sentier du Littoral (stunning coastal path).

A close up of some red flowers, lining a coastal path in antibes with the ocean in the distance and seawalls — A coastal path in Antibes

Afternoon: Try lunch in one of the hip beach clubs, or if that’s not your style there’s plenty of spots for a picnic (after a splurge in a bakery).

Afternoon: A leisurely swim or a kayak along the stunning coast.

Evening: Sunset aperitif at a rooftop or wine bar in the Old Town.

Day 6: Day Trip to Cannes or Îles de Lérins

Option 1: Take the ferry (~15 min) to Île Sainte-Marguerite for forest trails, snorkelling, and Fort Royal.

Option 2: Train to Cannes – stroll the Croisette, shop, or relax on the beach.

Evening: Return to Antibes for a quiet dinner and a nightcap.

For more ideas on what to do in Antibes, try looking through Expedia’s best-rated activities!

Day 7: Au Revoir

Morning: A final delicious pastry & coffee by the sea before departure.

Transfer: Tram or taxi back to Nice Airport.

Flight: Nice (NCE) to UK

Croissants and other pastries are viewed from the outside of a French Bakery — A French bakery window

How much does it cost?

The following is priced per person, and includes flights, transfers, accommodation, food & drink and activities. The prices are an estimation depending on your budget.

Tight Budget: £500 – £740

Mid-Range: £910 – £1,260

Luxury: £1,850 – £2,830

Itinerary Balance

A pie chart showing the balance of culture (40%), adventure (30%), and relaxation (30%) — Itinerary pie chart for the Cote D’Azur

This itinerary offers a rich cultural experience through charming old towns, art museums, and local markets. It’s equally suited to relaxation, with plenty of beach time, leisurely meals, and tranquil stays by the sea. Light adventure adds variety, with scenic coastal walks, day trips to hilltop villages, and optional activities like sailing or biking. The perfect blend for curious, laid-back travellers who need a culture fix.

A poster describes the various weather conditions you might find in the French Riviera — A poster chart detailing the weather on the French Riviera

When should I go?

If you don’t fancy the heights of summer, in terms of temperature, cost and crowds then perhaps avoid July and August. Late May to mid-June or early to mid-September for instance, will still give you a high chance of beautiful weather, manageable crowds, and a relaxed Mediterranean experience at a good price. Bonnes Vacances!

Sun, Style & Slow on the Côte d’Azur