French Riviera

The words 'The French Riviera' evoke images of idyllic Mediterranean towns graced with lush palm trees and azure seas (such as Nice, Villefranche), medieval hilltop villages captured in time (St-Paul-de-Vence, Grasse and Èze), glamorous coastal towns (take a bow Monaco and Cannes), and colourful harbours dotted with the expensive yachts of the rich and famous.

The light and beauty of the Côte d'Azur has inspired great artists including Matisse, Chagall, Picasso and Renoir, it has been a haven for the rich and famous for centuries, and continues to attract discerning travellers. Great Rail Journeys offers four ways to see this celebrated coastline, including the hilltop towns and chic resorts of Provence.

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Glamorous towns and cities

The towns and cities on the French Riviera have a lot of character. Explore the cheerful streets of Nice, wander the palm tree-lined boulevards of Cannes, and gaze at the superyachts on the marina of Monaco. Each one offers its own unique charm, blending stunning scenery with the quintessential glamour of the Mediterranean coast.

Enchanting villages

Each village combines natural beauty with cultural heritage. From hilltop Èze, admire panoramic Mediterranean views, meander through art galleries and mediaeval architecture in Saint-Paul-de-Vence and soak up Grasse, famed as the perfume capital. These picturesque villages capture the essence of Provence's beauty and cultural richness.

Breathtaking beaches

Stunning beaches lie all along the coastline of the French Riviera. Enjoy sandy stretches, stroll pebbled shores, or explore hidden coves. Plus, the azure waters are perfect for a paddle, a swim, or simply relaxing. From sun-drenched sands to secluded shores, there is a perfect beach experience for everyone visiting the region.

Delicious food and wine

Influenced by Mediterranean flavours, the cuisine adds something special to your French Riviera experience. Local dishes feature fresh seafood alongside regional specialities and the area is known for its use of olive oil, herbs, and vegetables. It is also renowned for its wines, producing varieties like rosé, especially from Provence, and red wines from vineyards near Nice and Cannes.

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Cannes and the Côte d'Azur

2025AprMayAugSep

Embrace the sights, scents and flavours of the French Riviera from a boutique hotel in the popular coastal town of Cannes. Admire the wonderful gardens at St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat's opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and witness the time-honoured Changing of the Guards ceremony in Monaco. Tour the quaint Provençal town of Èze to enjoy exquisite...

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Nice & The French Riviera

(80 reviews)

2025AprMayJunSepOct

Explore the French Riviera from a hotel just a short walk from Nice's palm-lined Promenade des Anglais and its long beaches. Visit beautiful seaside towns with time to explore at your own pace. Discover colourful Villefrance-sur-Mer, uncover the history of the old port of Antibes, and savour the charm of Cannes. During a guided tour of Monaco,...

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Nice Carnival & The French Riviera

(25 reviews)

2025Feb

2026Feb

Enjoy the decorated floats, fancy dress and a cast of thousands featuring musicians and dancers on this rail journey to the captivating Nice Carnival. Bask in fantastic views of this vibrant extravaganza and explore the shining French Riviera. Get to know Nice on a guided tour, exploring the historic market square and charismatic Old Town, as...

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6 days from

£1,099 pp

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The Cote d'Azur and Nice Carnival

(33 reviews)

2025Feb

2026Feb

Admire the decorated floats, colourful costumes and spirited atmosphere of the captivating Nice Carnival on this rail holiday to the French Riviera. From reserved grandstand seats, bask in fantastic views of this vibrant extravaganza and explore the shimmering Côte d'Azur. Uncover the charm and history of Nice on a guided tour and watch the...

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French Riviera

Glamorous towns and cities

Enchanting villages

Breathtaking beaches

Delicious food and wine

4 results matching: French Riviera