French Riviera 7-Day Itinerary: Nice to Saint-Tropez
The South of France
Eager to plan a memorable trip around the French Riviera but feeling a bit uncertain on where to begin, what to see, the budget, or the length? Consider this itinerary your personal travel advisor with all of your answers, laying out all the essential information to plan for an extraordinary seven-day adventure. This journey will let you experience all of the nightlife, delicious food, beautiful locations, and couples that you've been eager to see.
While visiting the French Riviera, you'll find beautiful beaches, colorful towns, historical attractions, and delicious food. We've put together plenty of specific plans below, starting with with the many reasons why you should visit this amazing region. We then cover estimated costs, where to stay, the route, and things to see and do along the way.
This itinerary will take you through the following destinations:
- Nice (3 days)
- Cannes (2 days)
- Saint-Tropez (2 days)
Nice, France
Itinerary Highlights
- Great for couples
- Family-friendly
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Beaches
- Delicious Food
- Beautiful Locations
- Historic Sites
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
- Nightlife
You can't pass up a trip to the area, especially for its fantastic beaches. Imagine yourself lounging on the sandy shores, soaking up the good vibes, and taking it easy in the water. You absolutely can't overlook the beaches surrounding Cannes, Saint-Tropez, and Nice, as they're a must-see.
Many travelers embark on journeys with the pursuit of mouthwatering cuisine, and the French Riviera is no exception. This trip promises a plethora of exceptional restaurants and local delicacies that demand a taste. In particular, make sure you visit the restaurants in Cannes and Nice.
One of the primary attractions in the French Riviera is its jaw-dropping scenery, drawing visitors from far and wide. Make sure to pack your camera because seeing it in person is better than you've heard. You don't want to miss Saint-Tropez, Nice, and Cannes for the beautiful scenery.
You'll also be able to uncover the rich and vibrant history of the French Riviera. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic architecture, museums, and deep historical culture that permeates the area.
You absolutely can't miss out on scuba diving and snorkeling when you're in the French Riviera. The crystal-clear waters teem with marine life, making it a must-do experience. Don't forget to carve out some time to get out on the water. Especially noteworthy are the fantastic diving opportunities in the vicinity of Saint-Tropez.
When the sun goes down in the French Riviera, the nightlife heats up with a wide array of cool spots that you won't want to miss. The nightlife in Saint-Tropez, Nice, and Cannes is especially festive.
Saint-Tropez, France
When is the best time to visit?
Summer is a great time to visit the French Riviera. It's a peak travel season here that draws plenty of visitors for a good reason. Although you might encounter bustling crowds, the upside is that everything will be wide open and within easy reach.
Who is this itinerary for?
Let's get into the romantic side of the French Riviera. This region has a well-deserved reputation as the perfect spot for couples. If you're exploring with your special someone, get ready for a truly delightful experience. For romantic charm, Saint-Tropez, Nice, and Cannes especially should not be missed.
Looking for a perfect family-friendly destination? Look no further than the French Riviera, where a multitude of kid-friendly activities awaits to make your trip an absolute delight. In the various sections below, we'll discuss this even more. For example, families love all of the activities in Saint-Tropez.
If you're watching your wallet or embarking on a backpacking escapade, the area has got you covered with a range of budget-friendly options. From economical hostels and budget hotels to free activities, affordable eats, and a vibrant social atmosphere, your trip is set to be fantastic without breaking the bank.
The Port of Cannes, France
Transportation
It's fairly easy to get between these destinations in the French Riviera, as most of these places are an average of 2 hours apart.
We've planned this as a one-way journey from Nice to Saint-Tropez because it covers a lot of distance and the transportation options are good in both places. However, you could always loop back to the beginning if it's easier. Also, you can do this route in the opposite direction if you find better tickets into Saint-Tropez instead of Nice. To get to Nice, you can see flight prices and schedules here.
A fun way to explore the area is in a car. If you don't have your own, no worries, just grab a rental car. Having your own wheels is key for ultimate freedom and flexibility in the French Riviera. You call the shots on your schedule and can make impromptu stops whenever the mood hits.
The train network in the French Riviera offers a hassle-free and economical way to explore the region. Major cities are well-connected with swift train services, though reaching smaller towns might involve additional time and potential transfers to local buses. Opting for main routes ensures a straightforward journey, allowing travelers to relax and take in the beautiful views from their seats. It's advisable to plan ahead by checking ticket prices and schedules for a smooth travel experience.
In the broader context, buses prove to be an excellent mode of transportation in the area because of their affordability, quick service, and ease of use. For those on a tight budget without a car, check out the prices and make your own judgement. You'll see that buses are a great option.
Is seven days enough time in the French Riviera?
Yes, seven days provides a comfortable window to explore the major attractions in the French Riviera. Our meticulously planned itinerary ensures you can absorb the essence of each destination, creating a trip that's not only enjoyable but also leisurely. If you find yourself yearning for more local flavor, extending your stay or dedicating extra time to specific areas is an option. With an array of day trip possibilities, flexibility is key. Conversely, for those with time constraints, consider adjusting this proposed itinerary for a condensed yet fulfilling experience. While cutting out a few stops is feasible, we recommend aiming for around seven days to truly savor everything.
How much does a seven-day trip to the French Riviera cost?
Let's break down the estimated budget for this specific seven-day adventure in the French Riviera, assuming you stick to the plan outlined below. Drawing on actual spending data from travelers and cost data from major travel companies, the daily average costs below are per person. They exclude transportation, as that can vary depending on your choices. Consider this breakdown as a financial roadmap, with mid-level hotels, regular dining, and key attractions aligning with these estimates. Anyone seeking cheaper options can opt for hostels, budget hotels, and more affordable food options. On the flip side, embracing luxury hotels, upscale dining, and private tours will make you go well beyond this budget.
| City | Daily Average | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nice | $142 | 3 | $427 |
| Cannes | $149 | 2 | $298 |
| Saint-Tropez | $159 | 2 | $317 |
| Total per Person | $1,042 | ||
| for 2 People | $2,085 | ||
The estimated cost for this seven-day adventure in the French Riviera is approximately $1,042 per person, according to our calculations. It's worth noting that this does not cover transportation between destinations. That part is entirely dependent on your chosen mode of travel.
Accommodation Costs
Trying to figure out how much you'll pay for hotels on this trip? Below is the expected cost for accommodations for this trip through the French Riviera based on calculated averages.
Hotel Prices
The average price for a hotel room in each destination is outlined below. Sourced from Kayak's hotel data, it's crucial to recognize that these figures exclude taxes and fees. Think of these averages as representative of mid-range hotel experiences, yet, keep in mind, that it's possible to spend more or less, particularly if you opt for budget-friendly lodgings or indulge in high-end luxury hotels. These prices will usually be higher during peak travel season, too.
| City | Average Hotel Room Price | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nice | $97 | 3 | $291 |
| Cannes | $152 | 2 | $304 |
| Saint-Tropez | $469 | 2 | $938 |
| Total Expected Hotel Cost | $1,533 | ||
Hostel Prices
If you're all about smart spending on your adventure, hostels are an enticing option, especially for younger or solo travelers. The prices outlined below show the average expenses for a dorm bed in a hostel at each destination. Despite sacrificing a bit of privacy in a hostel dorm, the lively atmosphere often cultivates a social setting, creating fantastic opportunities to build new connections. It's worth noting that many hostels also offer private rooms at a slightly higher cost than dorms, along with additional perks like kitchens, social activities, and prime locations. These average prices are computed from available hostel data shared by HostelWorld.
| City | Average Hostel Dorm Price (per person) |
|---|---|
| Nice | $29 |
| Cannes | $39 |
The French Riviera Itinerary
1. Nice
3 Days
Nice is a world famous destination along the French Riviera. It's lined with pebbly beaches and iconic shopping areas. The city is famous for its popularity amongst celebrities, but casual vacationers will also enjoy visiting the many cafes and and coastal views around town. Visitors can walk down the famous and historic promenade or pop in a local eatery to try some French cuisine.
Many travelers come to Nice because it has snorkeling and scuba diving, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great place for couples, families, and backpackers due to all of the activities.
Nice has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants.
This is one of the most popular destinations in the world for nightlife. It's considered by many to be a fun party-oriented seaside destination, and is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once to experience.
Luxury resorts in the area are especially popular. If you can swing it, stay at one while you're here for relaxation, pampering, and fun.
What to See in Nice
How to Spend 3 Days in Nice
Day 1:
Don't miss the Promenade des Anglais during your trip to Nice, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.
The culinary scene in Nice is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this seaside destination's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.
Nice is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the seaside destination, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.
Day 2:
The beautiful beaches await you in Nice, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.
The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.
The public transit in Nice is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the seaside destination quite easily and affordably. There are both buses and trams.
Day 3:
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.
Nice is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. A premiere destination in the French Riviera, this town is known for it's luxury, glitz, charm, and personality.
More Activities
In Nice, a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do awaits. Check out some of the best options, compare prices, and make advance bookings to make the most of your time in the area.
For more ideas to help you plan your time in Nice, see The Best Cheap Airport Transfers in Nice, The Best French Riviera Tours from Nice, The Best Eze Tours from Nice, and The Best Cheap Walking Tours in Nice.
Nice Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Nice average around $142 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Nice here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $10 | $27 | $78 |
| Food2 | $21 | $53 | $128 |
| Entertainment1 | $6 | $13 | $24 |
| Alcohol2 | $8 | $18 | $38 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Nice, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $97, calculated from the data of 349 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Nice here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Nice offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $29. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Nice.
Transportation
If you have a car for this trip, here are driving directions from Nice to Cannes.
2. Cannes
2 Days
Cannes is a famous resort town in the French Riviera that is popular with celebrities. It's a glamourous and ritzy destination that hosts the world famous international film festival. The city has many nice beaches, particularly along the Boulevard de la Croisette. This is also where you'll find many luxury hotels.
Many travelers come to Cannes because it has snorkeling and scuba diving, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great place for couples and families due to all of the activities.
Cannes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants.
The music scene here is popular and famous around the world. Make sure to take some time to see a show.
Luxury resorts in the area are especially popular. If you can swing it, stay at one while you're here for relaxation, pampering, and fun.
Since Cannes is one of the premier shopping cities in the world, make sure you spend some time perusing the local shops.
What to See in Cannes
How to Spend 2 Days in Cannes
Day 1:
Shopping in Cannes is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.
The culinary scene in Cannes is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this resort city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.
Cannes is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the resort city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.
Day 2:
Don't miss Boulevard de la Croisette during your trip to Cannes, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.
Live music is very popular in Cannes, so make sure you spend the evening exploring some of the more popular venues. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.
The public transit in Cannes is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the resort city quite easily and affordably. There are buses that travel around the city.
More Activities
In Cannes, a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do awaits. Check out some of the best options, compare prices, and make advance bookings to make the most of your time in the area.
For more ideas to help you plan your time in Cannes, see The Best Cruise Shore Excursions in Cannes, The Best Airport Transfers in Cannes, The Best Boat Tours and Cruises in Cannes, and The Beaches.
Cannes Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Cannes average around $149 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Cannes here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $8 | $18 | $34 |
| Food2 | $22 | $49 | $94 |
| Entertainment1 | $14 | $33 | $63 |
| Alcohol2 | $8 | $19 | $37 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Cannes, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $152, calculated from the data of 324 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Cannes here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Cannes offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $39. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Cannes.
Transportation
If you have a car for this trip, here are driving directions from Cannes to Saint-Tropez.
3. Saint-Tropez
2 Days
Saint Tropez is synonymous with celebrity vacationers and luxury villas. Particularly during the summer months you'll find many Hollywood A listers hanging out at exclusive beach clubs and soaking up the Mediterranean sun. The resort town is filled with extravagant yachts and designer brands, but there are also world class beaches and some of the best scuba diving along the French Riviera.
Many travelers come to Saint-Tropez because it has snorkeling and scuba diving, nightlife, and beautiful locations. It's also a great place for couples, families, and backpackers due to all of the activities.
This is one of the most popular destinations in the world for nightlife. It's considered by many to be a fun party-oriented resort town, and is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once to experience.
Luxury resorts in the area are especially popular. If you can swing it, stay at one while you're here for relaxation, pampering, and fun.
Scuba diving and snorkeling in the waters around Saint-Tropez are some of main activities for visitors. This is one of the top scuba diving locations in the world.
Since Saint-Tropez is one of the premier shopping cities in the world, make sure you spend some time perusing the local shops.
What to See in Saint-Tropez
How to Spend 2 Days in Saint-Tropez
Day 1:
Scuba diving and snorkeling around Saint-Tropez is world-class, and is one of the main reasons why so many visitors come here. Spend a day exploring the beauty of the surrounding underwater world. The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. There are wreck dives including the most famous, The Rubis, a submarine that is surrounded by marine life. Although you're not allowed to enter the vessel, there is still plenty to see. There are also plenty of dive spots that feature rock formations, schools of fish, and lobsters.
The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.
Saint-Tropez is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the resort town, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. It's easy to explore many places on foot, passing by beautiful beaches, stunning views, impressive yachts, and glamourous villas.
Day 2:
Shopping in Saint-Tropez is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. Surrounded by luxury, shopping is a must in this glamourous resort town. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. Whether you're looking for yachting clothes, cigars, jewelry, or perfume, this is one of the best shopping destinations along the Cote d'Azur. Art is a particularly popular item to purchase while you're in town.
Saint-Tropez is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. If you're looking for glamour and beauty, then this resort city along the French Riviera has it all.
The public transit in Saint-Tropez is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the resort town quite easily and affordably. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.
More Activities
In Saint-Tropez, a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do awaits. Check out some of the best options, compare prices, and make advance bookings to make the most of your time in the area.
For more ideas to help you plan your time in Saint-Tropez, see The Best Boat Tours in Saint-Tropez, The Best Food Tours in Saint-Tropez, The Citadel of Saint-Tropez, and The Port of Saint-Tropez.
Saint-Tropez Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Saint-Tropez average around $159 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Saint-Tropez here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $16 | $37 | $70 |
| Food2 | $18 | $41 | $78 |
| Entertainment1 | $12 | $28 | $54 |
| Alcohol2 | $9 | $21 | $39 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Saint-Tropez, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $469, calculated from the data of 43 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Saint-Tropez here.
Suggested Hotels
Final Transportation
As the last destination in this itinerary, you'll want to find the best price home from here. Check flight prices here.
Next Steps
So now that you have all of the information you need to plan your seven-day trip in the French Riviera, it's time to get started. Make your bookings ahead of time not just to find the cheapest prices, but also before the best hotels and tours fill up. We also have plenty of other resources to help you plan you trip, or another trip, too. Happy travels!
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