Major Geographic Zones
The Western Riviera (Var Coast)
Character: More affordable, family-friendly, spectacular natural areas
Key Towns: - Saint-Raphaël: Roman heritage, excellent beaches, gateway to Esterel - Fréjus: Historic center, Roman ruins, large weekly market - Sainte-Maxime: Relaxed resort town, facing Saint-Tropez
Transportation: TER trains to Saint-Raphaël, then local buses
Best For: Beach camping, water sports, hiking, avoiding crowds
The Esterel Coast
Character: Dramatic red rocks meeting azure sea, minimal development
Highlights: - Corniche de l'Esterel scenic drive (also accessible by bus) - Hidden calanques (rocky inlets) - Extensive hiking network
Access: Bus 8 from Saint-Raphaël station along coast
Best For: Nature lovers, photographers, hikers
Greater Cannes Area
Character: Glamour balanced with authentic neighborhoods
Key Areas: - Cannes Center: Film festival venue, luxury shopping, public beaches - Le Cannet: Residential area above Cannes, local markets - Mougins: Hilltop village, art galleries, gastronomy
Transportation: Central train station, comprehensive bus network
Best For: Beach access, cultural events, day trips to islands
Antibes-Juan-les-Pins
Character: Historic port town meets modern beach resort
Distinct Areas: - Vieil Antibes: Walled old town, Picasso Museum, yacht harbor - Juan-les-Pins: Jazz heritage, nightlife, sandy beaches - Cap d'Antibes: Coastal paths, exclusive villas (with public access trails)
Transportation: Two train stations, good bus connections
Best For: History buffs, beach lovers, coastal hiking
Greater Nice Area
Character: Multicultural urban center with distinct neighborhoods
Key Districts: - Vieux Nice: Medieval old town, markets, restaurants - Promenade/Center: Belle Époque architecture, shopping - Cimiez: Roman ruins, museums, upscale residential - Port/Riquier: Authentic neighborhoods, diverse communities - Libération: Markets, North African influence
Transportation: Trams, extensive bus network, bike shares
Best For: Urban exploration, museums, diverse dining, budget options
Monaco and Surroundings
Character: Tiny principality with surprising accessibility
Districts: - Monaco-Ville: Historic palace area - Monte-Carlo: Casino, luxury hotels - Fontvieille: Modern district, stadium, parks - Larvotto: Public beach area
Nearby French Towns: - Cap d'Ail: Quiet beaches, coastal path to Monaco - Beausoleil: Affordable accommodations above Monaco
Transportation: Excellent train connections, free internal buses
Best For: Day trips, architecture, people-watching
Eastern Riviera
Character: More authentic, Italian influence, spectacular gardens
Key Towns: - Menton: Lemon festivals, Jean Cocteau heritage, gardens - Roquebrune-Cap-Martin: Medieval village, coastal walks - Ventimiglia (Italy): Huge Friday market, authentic prices
Transportation: Frequent trains to Italian border
Best For: Gardens, cultural fusion, fewer tourists, budget dining
The Arrière-Pays (Back Country)
Character: Traditional Provence, cooler temperatures, hiking paradise
Notable Villages: - Vence: Artists' town, Matisse chapel - Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Medieval walls, art galleries - Grasse: Perfume capital, authentic old town - Gourdon: Spectacular viewpoint, fewer tourists
Transportation: Regular buses from coastal cities
Best For: Escaping heat, hiking, authentic village life