Local Information
Cote d’ Azur – French Riviera
Antibes is one of the prettiest historic towns with its with narrow cobble-stoned streets and the aura of “Picasso once lived here”. Antibes lies on the Mediterranean in the Cote d’Azur, located between Cannes and Nice. It is approximately 60km away from Italy and 50km away from Monaco.
Antibes
Vieille ville – Old town
It is a pleasant mix small winding streets full of little stores and cafes. Most of the stores are aimed at the tourists, but fun to stroll through. The place is excellent to people watch and don’t forget to check out the views from the sea wall.
Beaches
The French Riviera is known for its beaches. There are miles and miles of beaches to choose from, sandy and pebble beaches. Both the Plage du Ponteil and Plage de la Salis are very popular (read: very crowded). For a little more seclusion — but you’ll get pebbles rather than sand — head south to Cap d’Antibes. For a party atmosphere, you can visit the beaches in Juan-les-Pins.
Picasso museum
This museum is actually a former castle, the Château Grimaldi. The artist ventured upon it in 1946 and started using it as his studio. The museum does not compare to the one in Barcelona, but the views from the castle are not to be missed.
Absinth museum
The Absinthe Museum is really a bar, but many travelers highly recommend a visit. If you have never tried absinthe this is the place to discover it, in a warm friendly atmosphere, and with live music on certain evenings.
Marche Provencal (covered market)
According to Rough Guides, the Marché Provençal isone of the best markets along the Cote d’Azur. You can buy everything from seasonal vegetables to French cheeses to fresh meats.
Things close by (day trip)
L’Esterel
- Between Saint Raphaël and Cannes lies the Massif de I’Estérel, an ancient mountain range with Mont Vinaigre as its highest peak at 614m (2,050ft). Driving the coastal road is a dramatic sight, the rugged, reddish rocks contrasting with the azur blue sea. There are many hidden beaches and it is a great place to snorkel. It is approx. 40km from Antibes.
Cities / Towns
Nice
- Is a bustling city with an Italian flair. Visit the Promenade des Anglais, Vieux Nice, the Château Hill, the port and the many outstanding museums.
Cannes
- World famous because of the Cannes Film Festival. This is the most prestigious of the seaside towns of the Côte d’Azur. Visit Vieux Cannes, La Croisette (a great seaside promenade) or go shopping.
St. Paul de Vence
- An ancient hilltop village with narrow cobblestone streets where cars are not allowed. A favorite spot for Picasso, Matisse and other contemporary artists. A”must see” destination.
Activities:
Water sports
- The Cote d’Azur gets its name for the beautiful ocean right in front of the coastline. This means almost every watersport you can think off is available: swimming, boating, snorkeling, water skiing, kayaking, hire a jet ski or go diving.
- Hiking
- Shopping
- Cycling
- Rollerskating