French Riviera, France 13-Day Trip Itinerary

Depart South Normanton

Begin your road trip from South Normanton, driving towards Dover for your crossing to France.

Allow extra time for potential traffic on motorways.

Eurotunnel or Ferry Crossing

Cross the English Channel via Eurotunnel (35 mins) or ferry (approx.

1.5 hours) from Dover to Calais.

Book your crossing in advance, especially for August peak season.

Drive to Reims

Continue your journey from Calais into France, heading towards the beautiful city of Reims in the Champagne region.

Be aware of toll roads ('péage') in France. You can pay with card or cash.

Hotel Check-in Reims

Check into your hotel in Reims, a convenient stop for your first night in France.

Explore Reims Cathedral

Visit the stunning Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and traditional crowning place of French kings.

Admire its Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass.

Entry to the cathedral is free. Consider an audio guide for more insights.

Dinner in Reims

Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local French restaurant in Reims.

Champagne House Tour

Take a guided tour and tasting at one of Reims' famous Champagne houses, such as Maison Mumm or Veuve Clicquot, to learn about the history and production of Champagne.

Drive to Lyon

Embark on the next leg of your journey, driving south from Reims to the culinary capital of Lyon.

This is a significant drive, so plan for comfort breaks. Consider taking a scenic route through Burgundy if time allows.

Hotel Check-in Lyon

Arrive in Lyon and check into your accommodation for the night.

Explore Vieux Lyon

Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Renaissance architecture and 'traboules' (secret passages).

Look out for the hidden traboules connecting streets through courtyards and buildings.

Dinner at a Bouchon Lyonnais

Experience authentic Lyonnaise cuisine at a traditional 'bouchon', known for hearty, local dishes.

Drive to Cannes

Complete your drive to the French Riviera, heading towards the glamorous city of Cannes.

The drive offers stunning scenery as you approach the Mediterranean coast. Expect tolls on this route.

Check into Hotel Martinez

Arrive in Cannes and check into the luxurious Hôtel Martinez, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt.

Stroll La Croisette & Beaches

Take a leisurely walk along the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette, admire the luxury yachts, and relax on one of Cannes' beautiful public or private beaches.

Explore Cannes City Centre

Discover the vibrant city center of Cannes, browsing boutiques or enjoying a refreshing drink at a café.

Dinner at a Beachfront Restaurant

Enjoy your first dinner in the French Riviera at a restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Explore Le Suquet & Marché Forville

Visit Le Suquet, Cannes' charming old town, with its winding streets and panoramic views.

Afterwards, explore Marché Forville, a lively covered market (except Mondays) for local produce and goods.

The market is best visited in the morning for the freshest selection. Marché Forville is closed on Mondays.

Lunch in Cannes

Enjoy lunch at a local bistro or café in Cannes.

Riviera Boating Tour

Embark on an easy-going boat tour to the Lerins Islands, the bay of Cannes, Golfe-Juan, or Cap d'Antibes from Golfe-Juan marina.

Enjoy the stunning coastal views from the water.

Pre-Dinner Drinks

Relax with an aperitif at a stylish bar or café in Cannes.

Dinner & Evening in Cannes

Savor another delightful dinner in Cannes, perhaps trying a different local specialty.

Drive to Saint-Tropez

Take a scenic drive along the coast to the world-renowned village of Saint-Tropez, known for its glamorous lifestyle and beautiful harbor.

Traffic can be heavy in August, especially on weekends. Consider leaving early to avoid the worst queues.

Explore Saint-Tropez Port & Old Town

Wander through the picturesque port, admiring the luxury yachts, and explore the charming old town ('La Ponche') with its pastel-colored houses and artisan shops.

Lunch in Saint-Tropez

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in Saint-Tropez, perhaps trying fresh seafood by the harbor.

Visit Chapelle Sainte-Anne

Walk up to the Chapelle Sainte-Anne for stunning panoramic views of Saint-Tropez and the bay.

The walk can be steep but the views are well worth it.

Drive Back to Cannes

Return drive from Saint-Tropez back to your hotel in Cannes.

Relax & Casual Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed evening and dinner in Cannes after your day trip.

Hotel Check-in

Arrive at your hotel, the Hotel Cap Riviera in Saint-Aygulf, settle into your accommodation, and prepare for an exciting week.

Enjoy the beachfront location and proximity to charming towns.

Stroll La Croisette, Cannes

Drive to Cannes and take a leisurely walk along the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, admiring the luxury hotels, designer boutiques, and beautiful beaches.

Palais des Festivals

Visit the iconic Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, home of the Cannes Film Festival.

See the famous red carpet and handprints of stars.

Dinner in Cannes

Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of Cannes' many excellent restaurants, perhaps near the old port or in Le Suquet, the old town.

Explore Le Suquet for charming, authentic dining options.

Drive to Saint-Tropez

Enjoy a scenic morning drive along the coast to the famous village of Saint-Tropez.

Explore Saint-Tropez Port

Wander around the picturesque port, admire the luxury yachts, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Saint-Tropez.

Lunch in Saint-Tropez

Savor a delicious lunch at a restaurant in Saint-Tropez, perhaps with views of the port or in a charming backstreet.

Visit Chapelle Sainte-Anne

Take a walk up to Chapelle Sainte-Anne for beautiful views over Saint-Tropez and the bay.

This historic chapel offers a tranquil escape.

Relax at Baie de Saint-Tropez

Enjoy the serene views and possibly a short stroll along the Baie de Saint-Tropez, taking in the iconic scenery.

Return to Saint-Aygulf

Drive back to your accommodation in Saint-Aygulf for an evening of relaxation.

Drive to Nice

Embark on a scenic drive to Nice, the capital of the French Riviera.

Explore Vieux Nice

Wander through the narrow, bustling streets of Nice's Old Town (Vieux Nice), filled with colorful buildings, charming shops, and artisan stalls. Don't miss the Cours Saleya Market for fresh produce and flowers.

The Cours Saleya Market is best visited in the morning.

Lunch in Nice

Enjoy traditional Niçoise cuisine, such as Salade Niçoise, Socca, or Pissaladière, at a local restaurant in the Old Town.

Promenade des Anglais

Take a relaxing stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, enjoying the views of the Baie des Anges and the Mediterranean Sea.

Climb Castle Hill

Ascend Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for breathtaking panoramic views of Nice, the port, and the coastline. You can take the stairs or an elevator.

French Riviera Guided Tour

Consider a private or small group tour to discover more hidden gems and gain local insights into Nice and its surroundings.

Return to Saint-Aygulf

Drive back to your hotel after a full day of exploration in Nice.

Morning Beach Relaxation

Enjoy a relaxed morning at a local beach near Saint-Aygulf or Frejus, soaking up the Mediterranean sun.

Drive to Golfe-Juan

Head towards Golfe-Juan, a charming coastal town known for its marina, to embark on a boat tour.

Lunch in Golfe-Juan

Grab a casual lunch at one of the seaside restaurants in Golfe-Juan before your boat adventure.

Riviera Boating Tour

Experience the French Riviera from the sea with an easy-going boat tour from Golfe-Juan marina to the Lerins Islands, bay of Cannes, or Cap d'Antibes.

Return to Saint-Aygulf

Drive back to your hotel in Saint-Aygulf.

Local Dinner in Saint-Aygulf

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant in Saint-Aygulf or Frejus, sampling regional dishes.

Scenic Esterel Corniche Drive

Take a breathtaking drive along the Corniche de l'Esterel, a coastal road winding through red rock cliffs and turquoise coves.

Stop at viewpoints for photos.

Château des Marres Vineyard

Visit Château des Marres, a beautiful vineyard near Ramatuelle.

Enjoy a wine tasting and perhaps a light lunch at their on-site bar/restaurant.

Check their opening hours and book a tasting in advance, especially during peak season.

Lunch at Château des Marres

Indulge in a delightful lunch at the vineyard, pairing local cuisine with their exquisite wines.

Afternoon Leisure

Return to your hotel for some relaxation by the pool, on the beach, or simply enjoy some downtime after a morning of exploration.

Farewell Dinner in the Riviera

Enjoy a special farewell dinner in Saint-Aygulf or a nearby town, savoring the last evening of your week in the French Riviera.

Drive to Monaco

Enjoy a scenic drive along the coast to the Principality of Monaco, known for its opulent casinos and yacht-filled harbor.

(Approx. 30-45 min from Nice, 1h 30m from Cannes)

Prince's Palace & Old Town

Explore the historic Prince's Palace of Monaco, the official residence of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco.

Afterwards, wander through the charming narrow streets of Monaco-Ville (the Old Town), and visit Saint Nicholas Cathedral.

The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily at 11:55 AM. Consider visiting the State Apartments if open.

Lunch in Monaco

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Monaco-Ville, offering a mix of Monegasque and French cuisine.

Monte Carlo Casino & Port Hercules

Visit the iconic Monte Carlo Casino, an architectural masterpiece.

You can observe the lavish interiors or try your luck (dress code applies for the gaming rooms). Afterwards, stroll around Port Hercules, admiring the luxurious yachts.

Scenic Drive & Farewell Dinner

Enjoy one last scenic drive along the French Riviera coast back to your accommodation.

Have a final French dinner savoring the local flavors.

Consider dining in a restaurant with sea views for a memorable farewell.

Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy a final breakfast in the French Riviera, pack up your belongings, and check out from your accommodation.

Road Trip to Beaune

Begin your journey north towards Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy.

This will be a significant driving day, traversing through diverse French landscapes.

Plan for comfort breaks and consider packing snacks and drinks for the journey.

Hotel Check-in in Beaune

Arrive in Beaune, check into your chosen hotel, and take some time to relax after the long drive.

Beaune Evening Stroll & Dinner

Take a leisurely walk through the charming historic center of Beaune.

Admire the half-timbered houses and the impressive Hôtel-Dieu. Enjoy a delicious Burgundian dinner.

Breakfast & Departure

Enjoy an early breakfast in Beaune, check out from your hotel, and prepare for the final leg of your journey home.

Drive to Calais

Begin the drive from Beaune towards Calais, your departure point from mainland Europe.

Pre-book your Eurotunnel or ferry crossing well in advance, especially for August travel, to secure your preferred time and rate.

Channel Tunnel / Ferry Crossing

Cross the English Channel via the Eurotunnel or a ferry from Calais to Dover/Folkestone.

Drive to South Normanton

Complete your epic road trip with the final drive from the UK coast back to South Normanton.