Narrow streets filled with green plants, stone-walled houses, hidden fountains, castle ruins and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean… Discover our selection of 10 of the most beautiful villages on the Côte d’Azur!
In this article, we take you on a tour of these charming places to add to your itinerary, with practical tips and a map.
BEFORE OUR TIPS + PHOTOS
HERE ARE OUR FAVORITES ON THE Côte d’Azur East
Our favorite car rental platform: DiscoverCars
Our must-see tours:
Villa Ephrusi between Nice and Monaco
Magnificent village of Èze and Monaco from Nice or Cannes
Our unforgettable outdoor activities:
Calanques de l’Esterel by boat from Cannes
Snorkeling in Antibes
Helicopter flight from Cannes
Our favorite places to stay:
Nice: top-rated hotels e.g. Anantara Palace
Antibes: top-rated hotels e.g. Hôtel la Villa Port d’Antibes
Cannes: top-rated hotels e.g. Five Seas Hotel
Monaco: top-rated hotels e.g. Hôtel Hermitage
Menton: top rated hotels e.g. Hôtel de Londres
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Côte d’Azur’s best villages: map and video
Below you’ll find a map to help you locate our selection of the 10 most beautiful villages along the Côte d’Azur, so you can decide which ones to include in your road trip.
The Côte d’Azur has no officially defined boundaries. We choose the modern vision that stretches from Cassis to Menton.
And we’ve listed villages only close to the seaside with less than a 30min drive from the coast.
The video is coming soon!
1. Èze, the most beautiful village on the Côte d’Azur
Why visit?
Èze is the most popular village on the Côte d’Azur and even in Provence. So we had a preconceived idea when we went there. But he absolutely deserves his popularity. It’s exceptional!
Perched on a steep hill some 427 metres above the Mediterranean Sea, it offers spectacular views of the coast and sea. It’s a maze of narrow lanes and cobbled streets, typical of the Mediterranean region, with tunnels and arches. You can stroll through the picturesque alleyways, explore the local craft stores and discover Èze’s charming medieval architecture.
What’s more, it also has a remarkable hillside garden! And we were enchanted by the mix of cactus, rooftop houses and endless sea views!
The must-dos
- The maze of alleyways
- The exotic garden with all its cacti and waterfalls
- Its church and paintings
- Views of the coast and the Mediterranean
- See our article
How to get there
- Between Nice and Monaco
- Nice to Èze = 25min drive
- Monaco to Èze = 15min
- Cannes to Èze = 50min
- There is a large paying underground parking lot, or a parking lot further away from the village with a shuttle bus.
- You can come by bus from Nice or Monaco, or by cab.
- Note that the Eze train station is at beach level, 400m below. If you get there, you’ll have to take a bus afterwards, or hike (but the slope is steep).
- There are also organized tours departing from Nice – see program
Practical advice
- We arrived at 8:30 a.m., which was ideal, as we were able to explore the alleyways at our leisure before the crowds arrived. We highly recommend this approach
- Wear good walking shoes, as the alleyways are old and cobbled.
- Bring water, the village is on a slope and so is the exotic garden!
- Plan at least half a day
- Choice of restaurants, including gourmet eateries
An unforgettable experience
Èze is truly an exceptional place. You’ll even find some superb hotels here, and one or more nights in this historic location is an unforgettable experience in our eyes.
- At Hotel Chateau Eza – see photos and availability
- At Hotel La Chèvre d’Or – see photos and availability
2. Roquebrune
Why visit?
Also perched on a hill, Roquebrune once again offers an unforgettable experience, steeped in history and Mediterranean charm. It’s a medieval village with narrow streets, tunnels and breathtaking views of the coast and Monaco.
What’s more, there’s a castle to visit at the top of this rocky spur for even more history and exceptional views.
We really enjoyed exploring the village and climbing to the top of the castle!
The must-dos
- Visit the castle
- Exploring the village to find the best viewpoints
- The old olive tree, a remarkable tree
How to get there
- Between Menton and Monaco
- Menton to Roquebrune = 25min drive
- Nice to Roquebrune = 25min drive
- Monaco to Roquebrune = 15min
- There’s a good-sized parking lot under the village
- We recommend that you come by car
Practical advice
- As with all villages, come early enough to find parking easily.
- Take good shoes, as there are many steps, slopes and cobblestones.
- Make sure you drink plenty of water, there are a lot of stairs!
OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
3. Mougins
Why visit?
With its medieval charm, refined cuisine and artistic ambience, Mougins has something to please every visitor. It’s a circular labyrinth of charming narrow cobbled streets. Its statue-decorated squares create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Beware, it’s easy to get lost, but don’t worry, the village isn’t big, so you’ll easily find your way (like us!).
The must-dos
- Admire mountain views (which may be snow-capped at certain times of the year)
- Getting lost in the alleys
- Visit the Musée d’Art Classique de Mougins, with its juxtaposition of ancient and modern works.
How to get there
- Near Cannes
- From Cannes: 15min drive
- From Antibes: 20min drive
- From Nice: 30min drive
- It’s easier to come by car (or cab from Cannes).
Practical advice
- The parking lots are not very large, so come early enough to find a space easily.
- Avoid heeled shoes when exploring alleyways
- Mougins has several renowned restaurants. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience at Restaurant L’Amandier in Mougins.
4. Bormes-les-Mimosas
Why visit?
If you love villages in bloom, Bormes-les-Mimosas is one of the most beautiful on the Côte d’Azur. It’s a medieval village nestled on a hilltop, offering an authentic atmosphere and timeless charm. Its narrow streets and stone houses create the ideal atmosphere for a leisurely stroll.
The village has really made an effort to add plants and flowers everywhere.
The must-dos
- Views of the village center from the main road
- Views of the region and the sea from the village, the castle ruins and the top of the tower of the Museum of History and Art.
- Romantic ambience
- Saint-Trophyme church and its medieval architecture
- Medieval alleys
How to get there
- Between Toulon and Saint-Tropez
- From Toulon: about 45 minutes by car
- From Saint-Tropez: about 45 minutes by car
- It’s easier to get there by car, as there’s a large underground pay parking lot.
Practical advice
- Don’t come too late to find space in the parking lot
- The village isn’t very big to explore. Allow 2 hours
- A choice of restaurants
WHERE TO STAY ON THE Côte d’Azur
Option 1: City of Nice
A city with beautiful architecture, a long seafront promenade and lots of museums.
- Anantara Hotel, luxury by the sea – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Apollinaire, elegant and bright – see prices, photos and availability
- Aparthotel AMMI Vieux Nice very practical and pleasant – see prices, photos and availability
Option 2: Menton
For a town full of charm, close to several charming villages and mountains.
- Hotel de Londres, charming downtown London – see prices, photos and availability
- Riva Art Hotel, facing the sea – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Villa Genesis, for elegance – see prices, photos and availability
Option 3: Saint-Tropez
A small town surrounded by nature, known for its jet-set but also with a lot of charm!
- Hotel Sezz, with its delicious Michelin-starred restaurants – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Le Pré de la Mer, charm and calm – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Lou Pinet, in the center of town – see prices, photos and availability
5. Sainte-Agnès
Why visit?
Sainte-Agnès is an unspoilt medieval village with narrow streets, stone houses and a timeless atmosphere. It’s known as Europe’s highest coastal village. It’s perched at an altitude of 800m, overlooking the sea!
Thanks to its strategic location, it has a long military history, with the ruins of a castle at the summit, and the Fort de Sainte-Agnes (part of the Maginot Line), built before the Second World War, which juts into the rocky spur.
It has been awarded the “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” label.
The must-dos
- The view of the mountains on one side and the sea on the other
- Views of the village from the viewpoint and from the climb to the castle ruins
- Maginot Line Fort
- Alleys and church
- See our article
How to get there
- Next to the town of Menton
- From Menton: 25min
- From Monaco: 40min
- From Nice: 45min
- It’s easier to come by car, as there is a parking lot at each end of the village, and one below, at the chapel.
- There is also a bus service from the Menton bus station.
Practical advice
- If you plan to climb to the castle ruins, wear walking shoes
- Bring water. Lots of stairs
- Beware: the ruins are not secure
- Limited opening hours for Fort de Sainte-Agnes
6. Grimaud
Why visit?
Located in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, the village of Grimaud is an enchanting destination that combines medieval charm, rich history and spectacular views.
The village, with its narrow streets, tunnels and arches, has been carefully preserved and showcased.
It is dominated by the ruins of a castle, a symbol of the region’s power in ancient times. You can climb up to admire the views over the village rooftops, the hills and out to sea.
The must-dos
- Climb up to the castle and admire the views
- Getting lost in the alley
- Visit the Saint-Roch mill below the village
- Admire the sober yet surprising Saint Michel church
How to get there
- Next to Saint-Tropez
- From Saint-Tropez: 20min drive
- From Saint-Raphaël: 1 hour’s drive
- Narrow underground parking lot, but also several outdoor parking lots, including one on the side of the mill, free of charge.
- You can also take the little train to visit Port Grimaud and Grimaud – find out more
Practical advice
- Like many of the villages in the region, it’s best to arrive early to make room.
- And it’s best to wear good shoes to climb up to the castle ruins.
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7. Hauts-de-Cagnes
Why visit?
This village, with its cobbled streets, has attracted many artists, including Renoir and Matisse, as well as Josephine Backer, Suzy Solidor and Georges Simenon.
This charming village, a little less well-known than its neighbor Saint-Paul-de-Vence (#8), has it all: a hilltop location, charming little streets, a superb church, a château-museum, views in every direction!
The must-dos
- View of the surrounding hills
- Visit the Grimaldi castle-museum
- The magnificent Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul church and its original entrance.
How to get there
- Between Antibes and Nice
- From Nice: 25min drive
- From Cannes: 40min drive
- From Antibes: 30min drive
- There’s an automatic parking lot close to the center: you leave your car and it’s transported to a parking space.
Practical advice
- Avoid shoes with heels, because of the small pebbles.
- The automatic parking lot fills up on summer days, so don’t come too late or you’ll have to park further away.
8. Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Why visit?
After the village of Èze, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is undoubtedly one of the best-known villages on the Côte d’Azur. It combines medieval charm, a rich artistic history and magnificent views over the region.
It’s very well preserved and lively, with many art galleries and restaurants.
We particularly enjoyed strolling along the ramparts to admire the views over and around the village.
The village is renowned for its art scene (particularly in the 20th century). It has attracted many famous artists, including Marc Chagall, who lived and worked there, as well as Renoir and Picasso.
The must-dos
- Alleys with little gems for you to discover
- Walk along the fortifications
- Tomb of Chagall and the Maeght family
- The many art galleries
- The Maeght Foundation is a 5-minute drive away
How to get there
- Between Antibes and Nice
- From Nice: 35min drive
- From Cannes: 45min drive
- From Antibes: 40min drive
- There is a multi-storey pay parking lot just outside the town center.
- or take a guided tour from Nice – see program
Practical advice
- The village is on a fairly flat area at the top of a hill, with not too many slopes or steps.
- Be careful on the fortifications, there is no protection.
- Avoid wearing shoes with heels, as the floors are cobbled.
9. La Turbie (small town)
Why visit?
La Turbie is often nicknamed the “Terrace of Monaco” due to its proximity to the Principality. The panoramic views from certain parts of the village are spectacular.
One of the town’s main attractions is the Alpine Trophy, a Roman monument dating from the 1st century B.C. It commemorates Emperor Augustus’ victory over the Alpine tribes and offers a fascinating insight into Roman history in the region. We were impressed to be able to climb on them at the foot of the columns.
And, in addition to its Roman heritage, La Turbie also boasts medieval charm, with its cobbled streets and stone houses.
The must-dos
- The Alps Trophy
- Views of Monaco and the Mediterranean Sea
- The alleys
How to get there
- Next to Monaco
- From Monaco: 20min drive
- From Menton: 25min drive
- From Nice: 25min drive
- There are several parking lots around the village, but they fill up fast!
- Or visit it on an excursion from Nice, combined with Èze – see program
Practical advice
- Come early to find a seat easily
- Avoid windy or rainy days, as you will not be able to climb the Trophée des Alpes monument.
10. Cassis (small town)
Why visit?
Cassis is one of the best-known towns on the French Riviera. Located on the seafront not far from Cassis, its charming center faces the azure waters of the Mediterranean.
Cassis is surrounded by a spectacular natural landscape, with steep cliffs, calanques, beaches and vineyards. Nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts will find plenty to do in this region.
Although it’s not our favorite little pot, the port of Cassis is picturesque, with its colorful boats, seaside restaurants and lively Mediterranean atmosphere.
The must-dos
- The promenade along the harbour
- Downtown beach: Plage Grande-Mer
- And for the view, the magnificent Corton beach overlooking the Soubeyrane cliffs.
- A boat trip to see the calanques between Cassis and Marseille
- Kayak excursions around the calanques
- Hiking in the calanques (Port-Miou, Port-Pin, En-Vau)
- The vineyards
How to get there
- Western limit of the Côte d’Azur (according to a modern definition)
- Near Marseille
- Marseille to Cassis: 40min drive
- Toulon to Cassis: 40min drive
- Several pay parking lots around the town and in the center. Despite this number of parking lots, those in the city center can be full in summer and at weekends, as the city is very popular.
Practical advice
- Arrive early for parking
- Cassis is easy to explore
- If you go hiking in the calanques, be sure to wear good shoes, as the rocks are uneven and slippery. And take water, it goes up and down.
11 à 15. Other French Riviera villages
And if you have even more time on the Côte d’Azur, there are even more villages to discover (and even more if you drive inland).
11. Port-Grimaud
For something completely different, head to Port-Grimaud, the “Venice” of Provence. This small Mediterranean seaside resort is famous for its picturesque architecture, navigable canals, sandy beaches and Provencal charm. However, it’s a recent village, designed and built in the 1960s and 70s.
We particularly enjoyed climbing to the top of the church tower to admire the village and its canals from above.
Near Saint-Tropez.
12. Gassin
Gassin, perched on a hill on the Saint-Tropez peninsula, is an authentic Provencal village combining medieval charm and panoramic views. With its cobbled streets and stone houses, Gassin offers a picturesque experience. The village is also renowned for its delicious Provencal cuisine, vineyards and peaceful atmosphere.
It didn’t transport us as far back in time as the other villages, but it still had its charm!
It has been awarded the “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” label.
Near Saint-Tropez.
13. Ramatuelle
Ramatuelle, nestled in the hills overlooking the famous bay of Pampelonne and its dreamy beach, is a tiny, picturesque Provencal village. It has a few cobbled streets and stone houses. The village offers a little less exploration than the others, but we love all the roads around it with beautiful scenery. Don’t miss the Cap Camarat lighthouse!
Near Saint-Tropez.
14. Valbonne (small town)
Valbonne, located in the hinterland of France’s Côte d’Azur, is an enchanting Provencal village. Unlike the others, its alleyways form a grid, so it’s easier to get lost!
It’s a mix of cobbled streets, stone houses, colorful Provencal houses and arches. It’s still very much alive, with a lively Provencal market and numerous shops. A good mix of historic charm and modern Provencal lifestyle.
Near Cannes.
15. Villefranche-sur-Mer (small town)
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a famous coastal village. Narrow streets, colorful houses with wooden shutters and a picturesque port make this a popular Mediterranean destination. Villefranche-sur-Mer is also known for its pebble beach, seafront cafés and relaxed atmosphere.
It’s a small enclave that transports you to another world just outside Nice.
And villages further along the coast: Peillon, Gourdon…
The list is endless… We’ll be writing about the most beautiful villages in Provence.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE Côte d’Azur
- Inspiration
The most beautiful landscapes in 30 photos
Best things to do on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful villages
Best beaches on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful gardens
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Most beautiful islands
Secret places
- Practical advice
A successful trip to the Côte d’Azur (coming soon)
Rent a car in Provence – in Nice – in Cannes – in Marseille – in Aix-en-Provence.
- Where to stay
(coming soon)
