The most beautiful villages on the French Riviera to visit during your trip

Have you opted for a dream cruise along the French Riviera? This stretch of coast seems to have been designed from A to Z, such is the perfection that reigns here, offering you not only gulfs and bays, but also villages and towns that are not to be missed. The landscapes of this land, the villages perched high above the sea, the lush countryside and elegant towns have enchanted artists and writers such as Matisse, Renoir and Chagall.

Along the 120 kilometres of coastline dotted with places that seem to be anchored in time without end, you’ll find long sandy beaches alternating with secret, less touristy coves. The selection was difficult, and you’ll no doubt find time to make your selection during your cruises.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez was once a small seaside village with a fishing port. Even if its fame has overshadowed its aura, the village has managed to retain its charm of yesteryear, and the silhouette of Bardot still floats in the softness of certain alleyways.

Today, Saint-Tropez boasts a nightlife and shopping streets that attract the biggest stars as well as onlookers. The beaches of Ramatuelle and Pampelonne are world-famous, and still offer the desire to relax over a cocktail, on a comfortable sun lounger, after a perfect swim…

Antibes

Antibes is not really a village. In fact, it’s the second largest commune on the French Riviera after Nice. But its historic centre is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful on the French Riviera, and its port is the perfect place to stop off between two nights at anchor. Its artistic aura has lasted for 150 years, and the greatest painters such as Picasso and Chagall have captured the light of this sun-drenched town.

Cagnes-sur-Mer

Cagnes has also been adored by painters and artists. Renoir lived here for a time, and his house is now a museum. But Cagnes-sur-Mer also offers an unrivalled wealth and variety of gastronomy. The gastronomy of the French Riviera is an absolute must.

Cavalaire-sur-Mer

This small town is famous for its major racecourse, a refreshing change of scenery after several days at sea. An atmosphere of racing and luxury awaits you at this racecourse. It is a small seaside village nestling between Le Lavandou and Saint-Tropez. The beaches are framed by pine trees and an intense blue that has earned it the name French Riviera.

Ramatuelle

Ramatuelle is a typical Provencal village with stone houses and shady lanes. Nature is omnipresent in the village, with flowers lining the houses and courtyards. From the village, the view of Pampelonne beach makes Ramatuelle a perfect balcony overlooking the Mediterranean.

The atmosphere is suspended and calm, and the proximity of Saint-Tropez does little to detract from this gentle way of life.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Saint-Paul-de-Vence lies behind Cagnes, clinging to the side of a hill and invisible from the sea, to protect itself from Saracen attacks. Saint-Paul, like other towns in the region, was also the favoured residence of important painters and artists. The Maeght Foundation bears witness to this, exhibiting works by Chagall, Monet, Matisse and others.

Numerous art galleries and workshops still add colour to the village.

Bormes-les-Mimosas

A large marina with plenty of space and well-equipped quays welcomes you as a starting point for exploring the hinterland. Close to the coast is the islet with a fort which, until 2013, was the summer residence of the President of the French Republic. The island is linked to the mainland by a quay and drawbridge. A visit to the Fort de Brégançon is a beautiful moment in history. It’s best to visit in the morning, when the crowds are smaller and you can enjoy the charms of the place in peace and quiet.

Tourrettes-sur-Loup

This stone village on the French Riviera, not far from the sea, has changed very little since the Middle Ages. Tourrettes-sur-Loup is famous for growing violets, which colour the countryside from October to March.

Le Lavandou

Le Lavandou is located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, opposite the Îles d’Or (Port-Cros, Ile du Levant and Porquerolles) and at the foot of the Massif des Maures. It’s the perfect place to stop off for a kitesurfing session on the wide beaches of Hyères, or for a final refuelling stop before an extended stopover in Port-Cros…

Grasse

Grasse is famous for being the town for those with a good nose. It is here that a flourishing perfume industry has developed over the centuries thanks to the cultivation of violets, jasmine and other flowers. A thousand stalls and a thousand scents await you as you wander through the narrow streets of Grasse. This is a village that must be experienced, smelt and appreciated once in a lifetime.

Our list cannot be exhaustive, and it is up to you to illuminate it with your own memories.