French Riviera stay: Base yourself in Nice (5 days / 6 nights) — chill, no car needed
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French Riviera stay: Base yourself in Nice (5 days / 6 nights) — chill, no car needed

A fully car-free, relaxed itinerary: Old Town Nice, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Èze & Monaco, Antibes + an optional day in Cannes/Islands or Menton — gentle pace and easy logistics

Base in Nice: everything works great without a car
The “real” Nice: Old Town, market, local specialties
Villefranche (postcard-perfect) + optional Cap-Ferrat (Villa Ephrussi)
Èze + perfumery (optional) then Monaco (the Rock / Oceanographic Museum optional)
Antibes: market + ramparts + optional Picasso Museum
Cannes + Île Sainte-Marguerite (or Menton if you want something quieter)
Duration
5 days / 6 nights
Who is it for?
Couple, Friends, Solo, Family
Best time to go
April–October
Style
Relaxation, Sea & beaches, Walks, Gastronomy, Hilltop villages, Discovery
François
Author
François
Travel Planner France & Travel Writer
Updated on January 24, 2026

Trip overview

Itinerary
0
Arrival in Nice + an easy stroll (Nice)
1
Nice: Old Town, market, sea + 1 culture option (Nice)
2
Villefranche + optional Cap-Ferrat (Nice • Villefranche)
3
Èze village + Monaco (Nice • Èze • Monaco)
4
Antibes + Juan-les-Pins (Nice • Antibes • Juan-les-Pins)
5
Cannes + island (or Menton) (Nice • Cannes (or Menton))
6
Departure from Nice (Nice • Airport)
Areas visited
Nice • Villefranche-sur-Mer • Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat (optional) • Èze • Monaco • Antibes • Juan-les-Pins • Cannes / Îles de Lérins (optional) • Menton (optional)
Total duration
5 days / 6 nights

Travel Planner Service & estimated budget

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We adapt this trip to your dates, pace, and budget, then deliver a clear travel book (PDF + links) so you can book directly.

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If you want a truly smooth trip, this service helps you lock in the itinerary and transit times in a simple way. We optimize schedules (trains and buses), secure key bookings (hotel, activities, ferry), and plan backups if the weather turns. Most importantly, we recommend places that fit your taste, with a clear logic: eat well, move well, and enjoy the French Riviera without a car, without wasting time.

What’s included

  • Personalized kickoff call
  • Tailored program adjustments
  • Accommodation selection + booking links
  • Activities & restaurant recommendations
  • Final version of the plan (PDF) + links
  • Practical checklist (transport, schedules, local tips)

Not included The cost of hotels, activities, transport, and meals • Payments to providers (you pay directly)

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Trip cost (estimate)

This amount is the estimated trip cost (paid to providers). It is not the price of the Travel Planner Service.

650–1900

per person • estimate • based on 2 travelers

Day-by-day itinerary

Explore the detailed flow of each day, from morning to night, with photos, practical tips, and everything you need to prepare your trip. Need to adjust this plan? → Personalize this trip

Method-selected recommendations

The accommodations and activities shown below are recommendations selected using clear criteria , for their location, comfort, and overall experience—prioritizing reliable providers.

Day 0

Arrival in Nice: settle in + first breath of fresh air

Goal: arrive calmly, drop your bags, and start gently. A short walk on the Promenade to “decompress”. Then: an easy (but good) dinner, and an early night if you’re exhausted.

  • Airport → city center transfer without a taxi (if you want)
  • Check-in (practical areas: Jean Médecin / Nice-Ville or Old Nice)
  • Promenade des Anglais at the end of the day
  • Easy dinner (2 reliable options)
Promenade des Anglais in Nice, by the sea
  • Late afternoon / evening #1 Varies (depending on flights)
    Transportation

    Arrival in Nice (Nice Côte d’Azur Airport)

    Nice Airport (NCE)

    You arrive in Nice. Pick up your bags, hydrate a bit, then head to the hotel without overthinking it. The trip really starts tomorrow: keep some energy in reserve and go to bed with a light mind.

  • On arrival #2 ≈ 25–40 min
    Transportation

    Airport → city center (tram / public transport)

    Airport → Jean Médecin / Nice-Ville station / Old Nice

    Without a car, the simplest option is Nice’s tramway or a bus, depending on where you’re staying. If you sleep near Jean Médecin or Nice-Ville station, you’ll make life much easier for the train day trips over the next few days. One detail that changes everything: avoid a hotel too far out if you want a practical trip where everything links up smoothly.

  • Evening #3
    Accommodation Nice (center / Old Nice)

    💡 Two vibes to choose from: Choose the accommodation that fits you best (quiet, view, budget, proximity…).

    Room (Hôtel Rossetti, Old Nice)

    Old Nice (atmosphere, everything on foot)

    Atmosphere • Restaurants • Old Town

    Boutique hotel · 2 people · Central

    This is the ideal option if you like going out in the evening without planning. Charming lanes, small squares, restaurants: everything is just minutes away on foot. And for Day 1, it’s especially comfortable: Cours Saleya, Old Nice, and the seafront flow naturally, without detours.

    ⭐ 8.7 · Highly rated by our travelers
    Old TownEverything walkableVery lively at night
    ≈ €150–€260 / night (depending on season)
    See Hôtel Rossetti (Booking)
    Sea view (Hôtel La Pérouse, Nice)

    Promenade / Port (sea view, vacation vibe)

    Sea view (depending on room) • Calm • Promenade

    Comfort hotel · 2 people · By the sea

    If you love being as close as possible to the sea, this option is perfect. In the evening, you have the Promenade des Anglais right there for a gentle walk, and the center stays very accessible by public transport. It’s an excellent compromise: calm, holiday feel, yet you’re never far from Old Nice or the Port.

    ⭐ 8.5 · Highly rated by our travelers
    Possible sea viewEasy strollsGood comfort
    ≈ €170–€320 / night (depending on season)
    See Hôtel La Pérouse (Booking)

    Pay providers directly. We do not process your payments.

  • Evening (optional) #4 ≈ 30–60 min
    Activity Recommended by us

    Promenade des Anglais: a “decompression” walk

    Nice — seafront
    Promenade des Anglais

    To kick off a Nice trip, it’s hard to beat something this simple and effective. Walk along the Promenade des Anglais, breathe the sea air, and let the day fade away. If fatigue hits, keep it short: tonight’s goal is to recharge.

    Free
  • Evening (8–10 pm) — flexible #5 ≈ 1h–1h30
    Recommended meal

    Dinner in Nice: simple and local (2 options)

    Nice (Old Nice / Port)

    First night: keep it easy and stick to the essentials. The idea is to eat well without pointless detours, ideally near your accommodation. Choose based on your neighborhood: Old Nice for the atmosphere, or the Port for very local Niçois food and a calmer vibe.

    Chez Pipo — socca + Niçois specialties (local vibe)

    Port • Very local • No fuss

    Niçois cuisine · Socca

    If you want to try socca at a well-known spot, this is a safe bet. Keep it simple: socca, a main dish, and you’re perfectly set for this French Riviera trip. And if you’re staying near the Port, it’s also one of the most practical options.

    Local specialtyFastGreat on arrival
    €–€€
    Chez Pipo (info)

    Le Safari (Cours Saleya) — reliable Niçois food in the heart of Old Nice

    Old Nice • Central • Simple

    Niçois cuisine · Brasserie

    Very convenient if you’re sleeping in Old Nice: you walk back home without thinking about transport. A reliable choice, especially for a first dinner when you want everything easy and well-located. In high season, come a bit early or book if you can: your evening will be more relaxed.

    Top locationNiçois menuEasy logistics
    €€–€€€
    Le Safari (info)
Day 1

Nice: Old Town, market, sea + optional culture

We keep a pleasant pace, with activity choices. Morning: Old Nice + market. Afternoon: the sea + an optional museum if you like. Evening: sunset + dinner depending on your vibe.

  • Old Nice & Cours Saleya
  • Niçois specialties (socca / pan bagnat / farcis)
  • Option: Matisse Museum OR Chagall Museum
  • Castle Hill + sunset
Lanes of Old Nice
  • Morning (9:30 am–12:00 pm) #1 ≈ 2h–2h30
    Activity

    Old Nice: wandering + market (Cours Saleya)

    Old Nice (around Cours Saleya)

    This morning, go with the flow: Nice is best discovered on foot, without a strict plan. Between the lanes, colorful façades, and small squares, you’ll find something lovely at every corner. Stop by Cours Saleya for the atmosphere: flowers, stalls, scents, and some very easy photo wins. Small tip: come early — it’s calmer and much nicer when it’s hot.

    Free
  • Lunch (12:30–2:00 pm) — flexible #2 ≈ 1h
    Recommended meal

    Lunch in Nice: truly Niçois (2 options)

    Nice (Old Nice)

    Here the idea is simple: eat local and treat yourself in a real Niçois restaurant in Nice. Two vibes, two great choices: either a family institution or a small, almost cult-favorite spot. Either way, you’ll avoid the overly touristy addresses on the most obvious streets — and that often makes all the difference.

    Restaurant Acchiardo — a family institution (since 1927)

    Old Nice • Tradition • Friendly

    Niçois cuisine · Restaurant

    If you want a real Niçois restaurant — generous and no-frills — you’re in the right place. The vibe is friendly, perfect to start your day in Nice well. In season, it’s in high demand: if you can book, do it — you’ll save time and enjoy more peace of mind.

    InstitutionGenerous portionsVery central
    €€–€€€
    Acchiardo (info)

    La Merenda — tiny “cult” room (Niçois specialties)

    Central • Very authentic • Small group

    Niçois cuisine · Renowned table

    This is the kind of address you remember because it has character. The room is small: you need to be at least a bit organized, otherwise keep a Plan B in your back pocket. But if you want a more special, more carefully done lunch without going full luxury, it’s an excellent option.

    Local specialtiesIconic addressVery “Nice”
    €€–€€€
    La Merenda (info)
  • Early afternoon (optional) #3 ≈ 1h–2h
    Activity

    Culture option: Matisse Museum OR Chagall Museum

    Nice (Cimiez or center)

    If you’re in the mood for a real cultural pause, this is a great option in Nice. Pick just one museum: that’s more than enough, and you keep the day flowing. In summer, it’s also a good excuse to take a break in the shade and cool air.

    Matisse Museum (Cimiez) — simple, pleasant, very “Nice”

    Cimiez • Art • Easy walk

    Museum · Exhibitions

    The Matisse Museum in Nice (Cimiez) is one of the most coherent options with the city’s vibe. Cimiez is calm and elegant: perfect to extend with a short walk after the visit. Just check for exceptional closures depending on exhibitions to avoid unpleasant surprises.

    Great museumQuiet neighborhoodNo need to spend 3h
    € (depending on fare)
    Matisse Museum (official site)

    National Marc Chagall Museum — beautiful and easy to visit

    Center • Art • National

    Museum · Collection

    A very good option if you like human-scale museums without spending half a day. You can do the visit comfortably in about 1h30, without rushing and without tiring yourself out. It’s the small cultural add-on that immediately gives your Nice stay more depth.

    National museumSmooth visitVery accessible
    € (depending on fare)
    Chagall Museum (official site)
  • Afternoon (free + easy) #4 ≈ 2h–4h
    Activity Recommended by us

    Sea time: beach / swim / terrace (at your pace)

    Seafront (Nice)
    Room (Hôtel Rossetti, Old Nice)

    Now you’re truly in vacation mode: a swim, a towel, sunscreen — and nothing else to manage. If you feel like it, you can rent a sunbed at a private beach for maximum comfort. Otherwise, keep it simple: Nice’s public beach, a good ice cream, and you’ll enjoy it just as much.

    Free (excluding drinks / sunbed)
  • Late afternoon (4:30–6:00 pm) #5 ≈ 45–75 min
    Activity

    Castle Hill: the classic viewpoint

    Nice (above Old Nice)

    This is the easy “wow” without a car: head up to Castle Hill, enjoy the view, then stroll back down. Late in the day, the light is gorgeous and the heat softer — often the best moment. Take your time at the top: it’s the kind of image you keep in your memory.

    Free
  • Evening (golden hour) #6 ≈ 45–60 min
    Activity

    Sunset on the Promenade

    Promenade des Anglais

    A classic that almost never disappoints: the light, the sea, and that immediate feeling of relaxation. Even if you’re not particularly into photos, it’s well worth stopping for a few minutes. Easy bonus: a takeaway drink, a bench facing the water, and you’re perfectly set.

    Free
Day 2

Villefranche-sur-Mer: postcard-perfect + optional Cap-Ferrat

A perfect no-car day trip: short train, big payoff. Villefranche for the port + a swim. And if you want something “a bit more”, Cap-Ferrat works great.

  • Fast train
  • Villefranche port
  • Cocteau Chapel (optional)
  • Optional Villa Ephrussi (Cap-Ferrat)
Port of Villefranche-sur-Mer on the French Riviera
  • Morning (9:30–10:30 am) #1 ≈ 10–15 min (+ walk)
    Transportation

    Nice → Villefranche-sur-Mer (TER train)

    Nice-Ville / Nice-Riquier → Villefranche-sur-Mer

    An ultra-short trip — and that’s exactly why this outing is so enjoyable. By TER train from Nice, you reach Villefranche-sur-Mer in just a few minutes, with no complicated logistics. In summer, leaving a bit earlier helps you avoid the packed-beach effect: you’ll simply enjoy it more.

  • Late morning (10:30 am–12:00 pm) #2 ≈ 1h–1h30
    Activity Recommended by us

    Villefranche: port + lanes + coffee break

    Villefranche-sur-Mer
    Villefranche beach

    Stroll around the port, then gently get lost in the lanes — that’s exactly why you’re here. The goal is to soak up the postcard atmosphere at your own pace, without rushing. And when you find a terrace you like, sit down: in Villefranche-sur-Mer, it’s almost a golden rule.

    Free (excluding drinks)
  • Optional (11:30 am–12:15 pm) #3 ≈ 30–45 min
    Activity

    Option: Saint-Pierre “Cocteau” Chapel (short visit)

    Villefranche-sur-Mer (port)

    Short visit, big charm: it’s quick, simple, and genuinely different. If you want a cultural moment without sacrificing your beach afternoon, it’s a perfect option. Check opening hours by season so you can plan calmly.

    € (small ticket)
    Saint-Pierre Chapel info
  • Lunch (12:30–2:00 pm) — flexible #4 ≈ 1h
    Recommended meal

    Lunch in Villefranche: 2 options (by budget)

    Villefranche-sur-Mer

    Two simple options to choose based on your mood. Option A: a lovely table facing the sea, to enjoy the setting as much as the plate. Option B: a smaller, more intimate restaurant, often seasonal, but very charming. Either way, if you come on a weekend or in summer, book ahead: it’s more comfortable.

    La Mère Germaine — sea-facing address (a lovely moment)

    Sea view • Lovely moment • Classic

    Restaurant · Mediterranean

    If you want a French Riviera lunch without hesitation, this is a very good option. The spot is beautiful, the vibe is pure vacation, and everything feels easy. Perfect to treat yourself on a short day without overcomplicating things.

    Sea viewWell-known spotVery vacation
    €€€
    La Mère Germaine (info)

    Les Garçons — a more “small spot” option (often seasonal)

    Small • Nice • Seasonal

    Restaurant · Homemade

    A good pick if you’re looking for something more intimate and discreet. Check opening times: some places close outside the season, especially in winter. If it’s open, it’s very pleasant, and the small-town vibe works beautifully.

    Cool vibeLess “bling”Great for couples/friends
    €€–€€€
    Les Garçons (info)
  • Afternoon #5 ≈ 2h–4h
    Activity

    Swim / beach time

    Villefranche-sur-Mer

    Afternoon by the sea, simply: a swim, a short walk on sand or pebbles, and a real break. In summer, bring water and a hat: the sun is gorgeous, but it can hit hard. And if you’re motivated: a calm swim, then back to the towel for the perfect nap — excellent plan.

    Free
  • Optional (late afternoon) #6 ≈ 2h–3h
    Activity

    “Extra” option: Cap-Ferrat + Villa Ephrussi (if you like gardens & views)

    Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

    If you want to give the day another dimension, head to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Villa Ephrussi is a lovely visit: elegant villa, magnificent gardens, and beautiful sea perspectives. It’s doable without a car by bus, but keep some buffer on schedules: what matters is keeping the outing gentle and enjoyable.

  • End of day #7 ≈ 10–15 min
    Transportation

    Back to Nice

    Villefranche → Nice

    Train back, then a free evening in Nice: set your own tempo. If you still have energy, the Port is perfect for a short stroll. Otherwise, keep it simple: shower, relax, and get good rest before the next part of the itinerary.

Day 3

Èze village + Monaco: the “wow” day (no car needed)

Èze for hilltop charm. Monaco for a total contrast (and the “micro-state” vibe). All by public transport: simple, efficient, and honestly fun.

  • Èze village (hilltop) + sea views
  • Option: Fragonard (perfumery) for something different
  • Monaco: Port + the Rock
  • Option: Changing of the Guard + Oceanographic Museum
Hilltop Èze village above the sea
  • Morning (9:00–10:30 am) #1 ≈ 15–25 min (+ local bus uphill)
    Transportation

    Nice → Èze area (train + local bus)

    Nice → Èze (coast) → Èze village

    The classic no-car logic works very well: a train to the coast, then a bus up to Èze village. Keep a bit of buffer — it’s uphill and, depending on the season, it can get really hot. A very simple detail: bring a small bottle of water — it changes the day.

  • Late morning (10:30 am–12:30 pm) #2 ≈ 2h
    Activity

    Èze village: lanes + viewpoints

    Èze village

    Take your time: Èze is small, yes — and that’s exactly what makes it charming. Climb slowly to the viewpoints: the sea below is spectacular. And take breaks: in the heat, hydration and a gentle pace are your best allies.

    Free (excluding possible entry tickets)
  • Optional (12:00–1:00 pm) #3 ≈ 45–60 min
    Activity

    Option: Fragonard (perfumery) — short and fun visit

    Èze

    If you want a “typical” activity, the Fragonard perfumery in Èze is a lovely option. The visit is short, so it fits easily without breaking the day’s rhythm. And you’ll leave with a few anecdotes — and a subtle perfume on your wrist that often follows you into the afternoon walk.

    € (depending on purchases, tour often free)
    Fragonard Èze (info)
  • Early afternoon #4 ≈ 15–25 min
    Transportation

    Èze → Monaco (train)

    Èze (coast) → Monaco-Monte-Carlo

    Monaco is very walkable: the port, the Rock, the gardens — everything links up naturally. The train is fast and frequent, so you travel without stress and without complicated planning. Just keep a small buffer if you want to catch the Changing of the Guard — it can come down to minutes.

  • Lunch (1:00–2:30 pm) — flexible #5 ≈ 1h
    Recommended meal

    Lunch in Monaco: 2 options (quick or iconic)

    Monaco

    Two options, two vibes — and both work very well. Option A: the foodie market — simple, quick, and genuinely practical. Option B: the iconic brasserie on Casino Square, to experience Monaco fully for lunch. Choose based on your budget and your mood.

    La Condamine Market — local food court (super practical)

    Local • Quick • Practical

    Market · Food court

    Perfect if you want to eat quickly and keep exploring Monaco without spending two hours at lunch. La Condamine market is a great pick if you’re walking a lot today — it matches the day’s energy. Bonus: you can try several small specialties on the go, which makes lunch very flexible.

    FlexibleSimple vibeBudget-friendly
    €–€€
    La Condamine Market (info)

    Café de Paris Monte-Carlo — the “Monaco” brasserie

    Iconic • Casino Square • Brasserie

    Brasserie · Experience

    If you want an elegant, unmistakably Monaco experience, this is it. On Casino Square, the vibe is chic, and you watch the city go by from front-row seats. Yes, it’s pricier — but it’s also a memory. For some, this little splurge is totally worth it.

    Legendary spotMonaco vibeVery photogenic
    €€€–€€€€
    Café de Paris (info)
  • Afternoon (2:30–6:00 pm) #6 ≈ 2h–4h
    Activity Recommended by us

    Monaco: Port Hercule + the Rock (walk)

    Monaco
    Port Hercule in Monaco

    A simple, effective walk: from Port Hercule toward the center, then up to the Rock. No need to tick every box: pick your favorite spots and let the atmosphere surprise you. Monaco is small, but the vibe is unique — and for many, it’s an unforgettable visit.

    Free
  • Optional (11:55 am or depending on timing) #7 ≈ 15–25 min
    Activity

    Option: Changing of the Guard (if you want the ritual)

    Palace Square (the Rock, Monaco)

    A short official moment in Monaco that always makes an impression. It’s quick, so it’s easy to fit in if you’re already on the Rock. The Changing of the Guard at the Prince’s Palace generally follows a regular schedule: check the timing on the day so you can catch it without rushing.

  • Optional (1h30–2h30) #8 ≈ 1h–2h
    Activity

    Option: Oceanographic Museum (if you like “wow” museums)

    Monaco (the Rock)

    The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco is a great choice if you want something stimulating. Perfect if the weather is mediocre, or if you love marine worlds and impressive places. Just watch your timing: it’s easy to spend a long time there, so choose based on your energy and your plans.

  • End of day / evening #9 ≈ 20–30 min
    Transportation

    Back to Nice

    Monaco → Nice

    A gentle train ride back to end the day without stress. If you’re tired, keep it simple: a light dinner and rest is often the best choice. And if you still have energy, do as locals do: a small drink by the sea in Nice, a few minutes watching the water, and the day ends perfectly — without forcing it.

Day 4

Antibes + Juan-les-Pins: market, ramparts + beach

A well-balanced day: a real “old town / market” morning. Then ramparts and sea. And in the afternoon: an easy beach session in Juan-les-Pins (or a Cap d’Antibes walk if you prefer walking).

  • Antibes old town
  • Provençal market (if open)
  • Optional Picasso Museum
  • Juan-les-Pins: beach
Antibes ramparts by the sea
  • Morning (9:00–10:00 am) #1 ≈ 20–35 min
    Transportation

    Nice → Antibes (train)

    Nice → Antibes

    Antibes is ideal without a car: the station is central, and everything is walkable with great ease. By TER train from Nice, the trip is quick, so this outing is effortless and logistics-free. Small tip: in peak season, leave a bit earlier — you’ll enjoy the old town before the crowds.

  • Late morning (10:00 am–12:30 pm) #2 ≈ 2h–2h30
    Activity

    Antibes: old town + market (if you like) + ramparts

    Antibes (center)

    Start with the old town: it’s the true charm of Antibes — the one that grabs you right away. If the Provençal market is open, swing by even briefly: it’s lively, colorful, and very “south”. Then head to the ramparts: you’ll get the sea again, beautiful views, and often that pleasant breeze that makes the walk even better.

    Free (excluding purchases)
  • Optional (12:00–1:30 pm) #3 ≈ 1h–1h30
    Activity

    Option: Picasso Museum (Château Grimaldi)

    Antibes

    If you want a tangible cultural activity, the Picasso Museum in Antibes is a great choice. It’s easy to visit without spending the whole day, and the place has a lot of character. Perfect to slot in before lunch: you add a real highlight without breaking the rhythm.

  • Lunch (1:00–2:30 pm) #4 ≈ 1h
    Recommended meal

    Lunch in Antibes: 2 options (friendly or “special table”)

    Antibes (old town)

    Two options that cover two quite different cravings. Option A: friendly, Mediterranean, with a vacation-scented atmosphere. Option B: more gastronomic, if you want to make it a moment and treat yourself. Either way, in peak season, one simple tip: book ahead — you’ll be much more relaxed.

    Mamo Michelangelo — lively Mediterranean vibe

    Lively • Mediterranean • Friendly

    Restaurant · Mediterranean cuisine

    A well-known address in Antibes, perfect for a lunch that feels like vacation from the very first minute. The atmosphere is lively, the Mediterranean cuisine is generous, and it’s simply a nice place to settle in. Ideal for couples or friends, especially if you like buzzing spots where you enjoy lingering.

    AtmosphereWell locatedExperience
    €€€
    Mamo Antibes (info)

    Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit — “special table” option (if you want to mark the moment)

    Fine dining • Calm • Treat

    Restaurant · Refined cuisine

    If you want a true fine-dining experience in Antibes, this is a solid, elegant, very pleasant option. Perfect for a slightly longer lunch, with a real “special moment” feeling. Keep it for a day when you’re not in a hurry: here, you savor — and you can feel it.

    Great experienceQualityBooking useful
    €€€€
    Le Figuier (info)
  • Afternoon (3:00–6:30 pm) #5 ≈ 2h–4h
    Activity Recommended by us

    Juan-les-Pins: beach afternoon

    Juan-les-Pins
    Beach in Juan-les-Pins

    Time for the sea: Juan-les-Pins beach, a swim, and an ice cream if you feel like it — a perfect combo. Take your time, settle in, and truly enjoy it: these moments often make the magic of a French Riviera trip. And if you want to move a bit, a short seafront walk after the swim is ideal to end gently.

    Free
  • End of day #6 ≈ 20–35 min
    Transportation

    Back to Nice

    Antibes/Juan-les-Pins → Nice

    Train back — simple and practical — then a free evening in Nice: follow your energy. If you want a restaurant, book early in season: good tables fill up fast. Otherwise, keep it simple and enjoy a quiet evening: after a great day, that’s often what feels best.

Day 5

Last big day: Cannes + island (or Menton as an alternative)

Two options depending on your vibe. (A) Cannes + Île Sainte-Marguerite: very “vacation”. (B) Menton: colors + Italian atmosphere, often calmer. Choose ONE option and enjoy.

  • Option Cannes + island
  • Option Menton
  • Last evening in Nice (optional treat dinner)
Port of Cannes on the French Riviera
  • All day #1 ≈ 6h–9h (depending on option)
    Activity

    Today’s choice: Cannes + island OR Menton

    From Nice (train)

    Pick just one option and savor it: that’s the best way to enjoy without getting tired. It’s the itinerary’s last big day, so we want pleasure, not a marathon. Best habit: leave fairly early in the morning and return without stress, to end the day relaxed.

    Southern coast of Île Sainte-Marguerite (Lérins)

    Option A — Cannes + Île Sainte-Marguerite

    Vacation • Sea • Small island

    Train + ferry · Very easy without a car

    In the morning, head to Cannes by train: stroll along La Croisette or through Le Suquet, depending on your mood. In the afternoon, take the boat to Île Sainte-Marguerite: easy walking, small coves, and that true “disconnect” feeling. And if you like history, the Fort Royal / Iron Mask Museum option is a great add-on that’s easy to include.

    Island = real breakEasy walkingUltra “French Riviera”
    €€ (train + ferry + extras)
    SNCF Connect (train)
    Old town of Menton

    Option B — Menton (colors + Italian vibe)

    Colors • Walk • Relaxation

    Train · Very simple

    Train to Menton: colorful old town, seafront, and an almost Italian softness in the atmosphere. Simple plan: a calm wander, then a swim — no complications. And if you like gardens, Val Rahmeh is a lovely option: a delicate add-on, perfect to end the trip on an elegant note.

    PhotogenicCalm atmosphereVery pleasant at the end of a trip
    €€ (train + extras)
    SNCF Connect (train)
  • Lunch (or early dinner) — depending on option #2 ≈ 1h
    Recommended meal

    Where to eat: 2 options in Cannes + 2 options in Menton

    Cannes OR Menton

    Choose the options that match your city of the day. In Cannes, it’s a brasserie + seafood vibe, very Riviera. In Menton, you can go from a simple seafront pleasure to a top-level gastronomic experience. In both cases, a good restaurant at the right time makes the day even better.

    Cannes — Astoux & Brun (seafood, institution)

    Old port • Institution • Sea

    Brasserie · Seafood

    If you want a real meal in Cannes facing the old port, this is a safe bet. It’s well-known, well-located, and excellent for fish and seafood. In season, book ahead: you’ll avoid waiting and enjoy more.

    Well-known addressLocationSea products
    €€€
    Astoux & Brun (info)

    Cannes — Le Bistrot de Grand Mère (By La Brouette)

    Bistro • Friendly • Traditional

    Bistro · French cuisine

    A friendly, reassuring bistro option: traditional food, simple atmosphere, and you quickly feel at ease. Perfect if you want a solid restaurant with no fuss but good plates. And if you’re passing through Le Suquet, it’s very practical: you stay in the right area with no detours.

    AtmosphereSimpleWell located
    €€
    Bistrot de Grand Mère (info)

    Menton — Mirazur (full splurge, if you want a “wow” memory)

    Top level • Experience • Reservation

    Fine dining

    If you want a memorable experience in Menton, Mirazur is clearly the big “souvenir” option. Book far in advance: it’s in high demand — understandably. Of course it’s not mandatory: it’s the experience mode, the one you remember for a long time.

    ExperienceHighly reputedStriking moment
    €€€€€
    Mirazur (info)

    Menton — Le Petit Port (simpler option, by the sea)

    Seafront • Simple • Relaxed

    Restaurant · Mediterranean

    A good pick if you want a relaxed meal in Menton without blowing the budget. Seafront atmosphere, calm spirit, and that end-of-trip softness. Here, you keep it easy: you eat well, breathe a little, and finish the day smiling.

    SimpleAtmosphereEasy
    €€–€€€
    Le Petit Port (info)
  • Last evening in Nice (if you return early) #3 ≈ 1h–2h
    Recommended meal

    Last dinner in Nice: 2 “no regrets” options

    Nice (Old Nice)

    If you get back early enough, keep this dinner for pure pleasure: it’s your last night in Nice. Option A: a very central Niçois brasserie — practical and reassuring. Option B: a family institution, perfect for Old Nice vibes. Either way, the goal is to finish on a high note and savor it.

    Le Safari — practical, central, Niçois

    Central • Easy • Safe bet

    Niçois cuisine · Brasserie

    Perfect if you want an easy dinner after a big day without overthinking. The location is great, Niçois cuisine is on point, and logistics are effortless. In season, come early or book: these small choices often make the evening more pleasant.

    Cours SaleyaPracticalGood plan
    €€–€€€
    Le Safari (info)

    Acchiardo — family institution (if you want “authentic”)

    Institution • Friendly • Traditional

    Niçois cuisine · Restaurant

    A very good choice to end on an authentic note, with real Niçois cuisine on the plate. Friendly atmosphere, generous cooking, and that family-restaurant feeling that’s perfect at the end of a trip. In peak season, booking is strongly recommended: you’ll enjoy more and feel more relaxed.

    AuthenticCentralVery “Nice”
    €€–€€€
    Acchiardo (info)
  • Optional (if you do Cannes + island) #4 ≈ 45–90 min
    Activity

    Island option: Fort Royal / Iron Mask Museum

    Île Sainte-Marguerite (Cannes)

    If you like history, this is an excellent option on Île Sainte-Marguerite. Fort Royal and the Iron Mask Museum bring real variety compared to coves and walking. Choose based on your energy: the island is already amazing without it, but it complements the day very well if you feel like it.

    € (ticket)
    Fort Royal (info)
Day 6

Departure: Nice → airport

Last morning: check-out, a quick coffee, and an easy transfer to the airport. Don’t underestimate security time in summer. Better to leave a bit early and stay relaxed.

  • Easy transfer
  • Stress-free departure
Nice by the sea
  • Morning #1 ≈ 25–40 min
    Transportation

    City center → Airport (tram / public transport)

    Nice → Airport (NCE)

    Plan a comfortable buffer, especially in summer: the airport can be much busier than you’d expect. With luggage, leaving a bit earlier immediately removes a big part of the stress. And that’s it — end of the trip: you just did the French Riviera without a car, with a smooth pace and wonderful memories.

Want more detail: The full PDF goes even further, with itinerary variations, more restaurant ideas, optional activities, and extra tips.

Is this trip right for you?

A good fit if...

  • You want the French Riviera without driving
  • You like mixing “chill” time with 1–2 real activities per day
  • You want easy day trips by train, with light logistics

Not a good fit if...

  • You’re looking for a “low budget” trip (French Riviera = generally pricey)
  • You want to explore deep inland Provence (without a car it’s more limited)
  • You hate crowds in summer (July–August = very busy)

How would you like to use this trip?

Choose what fits you best. You can use a free itinerary, or personalize it with our Travel Planner Service (in-trip support included).

Important reminder: In all cases, you always book and pay directly with providers (hotels, activities, transport). We don’t sell bundled packages. We provide recommendations and booking links.

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