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Côte d’Azur Travel Guide (Part 3)

When it comes to summer vacation and seeking cool seaside retreats, the Mediterranean coast of France, also known as the Côte d’Azur or the French Riviera, is a must-visit. While there are many beautiful beach destinations across Europe, the Côte d’Azur stands out for its beauty, offering a perfect mix of sun, sea, and stunning landscapes. This guide will cover everything you need to know to explore the Côte d’Azur.

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Hotel Recommendations

Hotel Negresco

Located on the famous Promenade des Anglais, overlooking Angel’s Bay, Hotel Negresco is one of Nice’s landmarks. Its iconic circular lobby with a dome is designed by the same architect who designed the Eiffel Tower, and it is listed as a French national historic monument. The hotel has 117 rooms, including 21 suites, each with a unique style, ranging from luxurious royal designs to fresh countryside themes. The hotel is a favorite among many celebrities, with rooms such as the Pompadour Suite (Room 512), favored by Louis XV’s mistress, and the Imperial Suites (Rooms 415-416), beloved by Elizabeth Taylor and Sophia Loren. The Montserrat Caballe Suite (Room 122) was also frequently visited by Michael Jackson during his lifetime.

InterContinental Carlton Cannes

The InterContinental Carlton is a prestigious hotel in Cannes, renowned for its role in the glamour of the city. The hotel exudes a romantic legacy, with the famous love story between Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier of Monaco, who met here during the 1955 Cannes Film Festival. A special suite is named after Grace Kelly to commemorate their romance. The hotel also has several celebrity-themed suites, including rooms dedicated to stars like Sophie Marceau, Sean Connery, Sharon Stone, Alain Delon, Sean Penn, and Uma Thurman. Even Chinese stars like Liu Ye and Fan Bingbing have suites here. Liu Ye’s suite is a spacious 130 m², larger than Fan Bingbing’s 100 m² suite, and is also more expensive.

Thalissa Sea and Spa Hotel

  • Superb Oceanview Rooms

For those who dream of staying in a room with an unbeatable sea view, this hotel in Fréjus is a must-visit. Situated less than 100 meters from the water, it offers unforgettable views of the Mediterranean and the Côte d’Azur. When you open your window in the morning, you’re right above the shimmering sea. The balcony of the hotel rooms extends directly over the Rose Bay coastline, earning it the title of “Hotel on the Sea.” The crystal-clear harbor, luxury yachts, peaceful cityscape, and distant mountains make Fréjus a wonderful place to relax and unwind.

Château de la Chèvre d’Or (Eze)

Located in the small town of Eze in southern France, the Château de la Chèvre d’Or is a highly Instagrammable hotel. Situated atop the mountain, it offers panoramic views of Monaco Bay and the surrounding cliffs. The hotel has four restaurants—two indoor and two outdoor—one of which, Les Remparts, has a view that is especially recommended and has been featured in films. The hotel is a popular choice for celebrities such as Walt Disney and Elizabeth Taylor, who stayed here. The hotel is only open to guests, making it an exclusive spot. If you have limited time or budget, it’s worth stopping by for lunch.

Suggested Itinerary

For a perfect summer vacation on the Côte d’Azur, combining the beauty of Provence with the iconic sights of the French Riviera, here’s an itinerary you could follow:

Avignon: Start in Avignon, known for its rich history and medieval architecture.

Verdon Gorge: A visit to the spectacular Verdon Gorge, renowned for its turquoise waters and scenic hikes.

Cannes: Experience the glitz and glamour of Cannes, home to the famous Cannes Film Festival.

Nice: Explore the stunning coastline, enjoy the beaches, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Nice.

Eze: Take in breathtaking views of the Mediterranean from this charming hilltop village.

Saint-Tropez: End in Saint-Tropez, famous for its luxury yachts and celebrity-studded beaches.


From Saint-Tropez, you can continue your travels into Italy or return to Nîmes/Avignon to catch the TGV high-speed train back to Paris.