Nice: The Perfect Getaway on the Côte d’Azur

3-Day French Riviera Travel Itinerary: Luxury, Scenic Drives, and Iconic Views

 

Looking to experience the best of the French Riviera? From glamorous hotels to scenic beaches, here’s a personal guide that takes you through some of the most iconic spots on the Côte d’Azur. This itinerary is packed with luxury dining, must-see landmarks, and unique local experiences.

 

Travel Day: Milan to Nice

 

Late Dinner at Delizi in Nice

 

After taking the train from Milan, we arrived in Nice in the evening. The journey was smooth and scenic, with views of the Ligurian coast. Once in Nice, we headed straight to Delizi for a late dinner. The food was absolutely phenomenal, and the lively ambiance of the restaurant made it the perfect start to our adventure.

 

Fun Fact: Nice’s cuisine reflects its proximity to Italy, with fresh Mediterranean flavors and Italian influences. Make sure to explore the local dishes like socca, a traditional chickpea pancake.

 

Day 1: Antibes, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc & Plage Keller

 

Exploring the Glamour of the Riviera

 

Hotel du Cap I - Overlooking the pool at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

 

We started the day with a classic French breakfast of croissants, coffee, and fresh orange juice at a charming café near our hotel. Afterward, we took the train to Antibes, a picturesque town with a rich history. From there, we hopped into an Uber to the world-famous Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc.

 

Lunch at this luxurious hotel was simply divine. Not only was the food exceptional, but the hotel’s sprawling grounds and stunning seaside views were even more impressive in person. I’d love to come back and stay here someday.

 

 

Billionaires Bay I - Photo of the sunbathers enjoying an afternoon at the beach.

 

After lunch, we walked to Billionaire’s Bay, a hidden gem near Cap d’Antibes, where we snapped some photos and enjoyed the cove's rocky beach. We continued to Plage Keller, a beach club with stunning views and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a relaxing afternoon of sun and cocktails. After admiring the scenery, we took an Uber back to the train station and returned to Nice for some rest. We ended the day with dinner at a cozy Vietnamese restaurant.

 

 

Le Plage - A beautiful image of the palm tree lined beach near Plage Keller

 

Travel Tip: Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is one of the most iconic luxury hotels in the world. It’s been a summer retreat for celebrities since the 19th century, offering unparalleled views and a truly opulent experience.

 

Day 2: Vespa Adventure to St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat & Villefranche-sur-Mer

 

Lunch at Le Plongeoir and Exploring Coastal Towns

 

We started our second day with a lovely breakfast in the open-air courtyard of our hotel. Around 10 AM, we picked up our rented Vespa and began the day’s adventure. Our first stop was Le Plongeoir, a unique restaurant perched on a rock in the Mediterranean Sea. The views were incredible, and although it was a bit on the pricier side, it’s definitely worth doing once for the experience.

 

 

Paloma Beach VI - An image of the spectacular beach on St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

 

From there, we rode the Vespa to St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a stunning peninsula known for its exclusive villas and hidden beaches. We spent some time lounging at Paloma Beach before continuing our ride along the coastline. Our journey took us to Villefranche-sur-Mer, a picturesque seaside town with colorful buildings and a charming waterfront.

 

 

Game, Set, Match III - An image overlooking the tennis courts at Hotel Cap Estel

 

After exploring, we rode back to Nice for dinner at Delizi—yes, we went back! The food was so good the first time that we decided to bring family with us for another fantastic meal.

 

Interesting Fact: Le Plongeoir was once a diving platform in the early 20th century. Today, it’s one of the most unique dining experiences in Nice, with its location hovering above the sea.

 

Day 3: Èze, Monaco & Formula 1 Circuit

 

Exploring a Medieval Village and the Thrill of Monaco’s F1 Track

 

Plage de Mala - An image overlooking the Restaurant Eden Plage

 

On Day 3, we rode the Vespa to the medieval hilltop village of Èze, famous for its panoramic views of the French Riviera. After exploring the cobbled streets and doing a little shopping at the Fragonard Perfumery, we headed to Eden Plage Mala, a secluded beach with a serene atmosphere.

 

Interesting Fact: Èze has been a retreat for philosophers and artists throughout history, with even Nietzsche hiking its famous trail. The views alone are worth the visit!

 

Since the beach’s restaurants were busy, we decided to find a local pizza spot away from the coast, which ended up being a pleasant, quieter option. From there, we drove to Monaco, one of the most glamorous destinations on the Riviera.

 

As an F1 fan, I was excited to drive around parts of the Formula 1 track in Monaco. While some sections were blocked off to scooters, I still got to experience driving along most of the famous racing circuit.

 

For our final night in Nice, we ventured into Old Nice to Le Frog, a charming bistro known for its local dishes. We indulged in steak tartare and a fantastic seafood pasta to end the trip on a high note. The lively atmosphere in Old Nice is the perfect backdrop for a memorable last evening on the French Riviera.

 

Travel Tip: Old Nice is known for its vibrant market, Cours Saleya, where you can shop for local produce and enjoy the energy of the town. It’s a must-visit, especially in the evenings when the streets come alive with dining and music.

 

Travel Day: Back to San Diego

 

After an unforgettable journey, it was time to head home. The French Riviera exceeded all my expectations, and I’m already dreaming about my next visit.

 

Final Tips:

 

• Best Time to Visit: May to September, when the weather is warm and ideal for beach days, although these are also the busiest months.

• Getting Around: Renting a Vespa is one of the best ways to explore the coastline and access hidden gems. The trains are also very convenient for getting from town to town. Additionally, the city has a metro system, though we didn't use it as we either walked or used our vespa. 

• Dining: Be sure to make reservations at the more popular spots like Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc and Le Plongeoir, especially during peak season.

 

Whether you’re exploring luxurious resorts or taking in the history of medieval villages, this French Riviera itinerary offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.