There’s something undeniably magical about the French Riviera. Known for its sun-drenched coastlines, glamorous towns, and sparkling Mediterranean waters, this stretch of southern France and the neighboring principality of Monaco offered us a journey filled with elegance, romance, and unforgettable moments. In June of 2024, we spent two weeks exploring this stunning region, a time filled with sunshine, celebration, and one of the most meaningful milestones in our lives.
Our adventure began in Nice, the vibrant heart of the Côte d’Azur, before taking us through the star-studded streets of Cannes, the timeless beauty of Antibes, and the chic seaside flair of Saint-Tropez. Each destination offered its own unique rhythm and style, from vibrant markets and charming cobblestone alleys to luxurious boutiques and world-renowned beach clubs. We soaked in the scenery, tasted exquisite food, and let ourselves be swept up in the Riviera’s effortless charm.
And then came Monaco, a place of opulence and thrill, where we experienced the excitement of the Longines Global Champions Tour and wandered the luxurious streets of Monte Carlo. It was a whirlwind of beauty, culture, and deep emotion.
Come with us as we recount our time on the French Riviera, filled with sunsets, sea breezes, and a proposal we’ll never forget.
Nice – Seaside Strolls and Riviera Vibes
Our journey through the French Riviera began in Nice. This vibrant city perfectly balances old-world charm with seaside sophistication. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the lively atmosphere, pastel-colored buildings, and the stunning blues of the Mediterranean Sea. Nice welcomed us with sunshine, fresh sea air, and a laid-back elegance that instantly put us at ease.
We spent our days strolling along the famous Promenade des Anglais, a wide seaside walkway lined with palm trees, classic hotels, and beachside cafés. The sound of waves crashing just steps away made it the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty around us. One morning, we enjoyed a fresh croissant and café crème while watching joggers and families pass by—it felt like the perfect Riviera morning.
In the heart of the city, we explored the charming streets of Vieux Nice (Old Town), where colorful shutters, bustling markets, and the scent of lavender and spices filled the air. We stopped at local shops, tasted delicious Niçoise cuisine, and admired the view from Castle Hill, where the panorama of the city and coastline took our breath away.
Nice was an ideal starting point—full of life, beauty, and warm hospitality. It gave us a true taste of the Riviera lifestyle and set the tone for the incredible destinations yet to come.
Cannes – Glitz, Glamour, and Golden Sands
Our next stop was the legendary city of Cannes, synonymous with elegance, luxury, and cinematic history. Best known for its prestigious film festival, Cannes lived up to its glamorous reputation with sun-soaked boulevards, high-end boutiques, and luxury yachts bobbing in the marina. But beyond the red carpets and flashing cameras, we discovered a charming seaside city with a surprisingly laid-back rhythm.
We began our visit with a stroll along the Boulevard de la Croisette, Cannes’ iconic promenade that stretches along the shore. Lined with palm trees, designer shops, and the glittering Mediterranean just steps away, the walk felt like a movie scene coming to life. We passed grand hotels like the Carlton and stopped for a drink at a stylish beach bar, soaking in the upscale atmosphere and people-watching under the Riviera sun.
In the historic Le Suquet district, we found a different side of Cannes. The old quarter sits on a hillside and offers cobblestone streets, quaint cafés, and panoramic views over the harbor. It was the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the local charm. We lingered at a terrace restaurant, sipping rosé and sharing plates of Provençal cuisine as golden light bathed the rooftops below.
Cannes was a city of contrasts—old-world charm paired with modern luxury. It gave us a glimpse into the glamorous lifestyle the Riviera is known for, yet also invited us to enjoy its quiet, romantic corners.
Antibes – Art, History, and Seaside Tranquility
Nestled between Nice and Cannes, Antibes offered a serene and soulful escape along the French Riviera. With its rich artistic history, medieval ramparts, and peaceful harbor, Antibes quickly became one of the most charming and unexpectedly delightful stops on our journey. It had a slower, more intimate feel—perfect for wandering, exploring, and soaking up the coastal ambiance.
We began in Vieil Antibes (Old Town), a maze of narrow stone streets lined with colorful shutters, flower-draped balconies, and tucked-away shops. The town had a timeless quality to it, where daily life unfolded at a leisurely pace. We stopped at the Marché Provençal, a vibrant local market filled with lavender, fresh cheese, olives, and the scent of ripe fruit. The flavors and colors were irresistible—we couldn’t help but indulge in a few treats as we explored.
A highlight of our visit was the Picasso Museum, housed in the Château Grimaldi where the artist once lived and worked. Standing in the same rooms where Picasso created some of his Riviera-inspired pieces was surreal. The museum’s terrace also offered stunning views of the sea, framed by ancient stone walls and swaying palms.
Later, we walked along the harbor, admiring the sleek yachts and quiet coves before enjoying dinner with a view of the sunset reflecting on the water. Antibes felt deeply authentic—a place of beauty and creativity, where the sea whispers stories of the past and invites you to simply be present.
Saint-Tropez – Style, Sunsets, and a Life-Changing Moment
Our visit to Saint-Tropez was nothing short of magical. Famous for its luxury yachts and fashionable allure, this glamorous seaside town offered far more than celebrity sightings—it gave us one of the most meaningful moments of our lives. Beneath its polished surface, Saint-Tropez revealed itself as a place full of romance, history, and intimate beauty.
We began our day wandering through the charming old port, where fishing boats and mega yachts floated side by side. The streets were alive with art galleries, boutiques, and cafés that spilled out into cobbled alleys. We couldn’t resist a stop at the iconic Dior Café, nestled within a chic garden courtyard. Surrounded by elegant greenery and soft music, we sipped espresso and shared a light breakfast—it felt like something out of a dream.
Later, we made our way to La Citadelle de Saint-Tropez, a 17th-century fortress perched high above the town. As we reached the top, the panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops, glittering sea, and rolling hills unfolded before us. And it was there, surrounded by the beauty of the Riviera and the quiet grandeur of history, that one of the most unforgettable moments of our lives happened—we got engaged.
With the breeze at our backs and the Mediterranean stretching endlessly before us, it was the perfect place to begin our next chapter. Saint-Tropez will forever hold a piece of our hearts—not just for its style and scenery, but for the love we sealed on those ancient stone walls.
Monaco – Monte Carlo Thrills and Equestrian Elegance
Crossing into the glamorous principality of Monaco felt like stepping into a world of opulence and cinematic splendor. Known for its grand casinos, luxury cars, and cliffside views, Monte Carlo dazzled us from the moment we arrived. But beyond the glitz, we discovered a side of Monaco steeped in elegance, culture, and excitement—especially as our visit coincided with the prestigious Longines Global Champions Tour.
We began our exploration in Monte Carlo’s Casino Square, where polished Ferraris purred past fountains and palm-lined promenades. The Casino de Monte-Carlo, with its Belle Époque architecture, stood like a palace of dreams. Though we didn’t gamble, simply stepping inside felt like being part of a Bond film. We strolled the surrounding gardens, took in the harbor views, and admired the dramatic setting where mountains meet the sea.
The highlight of our visit, though, was the Longines Global Champions Tour, one of the world’s top horse jumping events. Set against the sparkling Mediterranean backdrop, the arena buzzed with excitement as world-class riders competed with grace and power. Watching these incredible athletes and horses in action was breathtaking—a blend of strength, elegance, and precision that left us in awe.
As the sun set over the marina and lights began to twinkle along the cliffs, Monaco came alive with romance and sophistication. Our time here was both thrilling and serene—a perfect finale to our journey through the French Riviera.
A Riviera Romance to Remember
As we look back on our journey through Southern France and Monaco, we’re filled with gratitude, wonder, and joy. This trip gave us more than just beautiful photos and unforgettable views—it gifted us moments of connection, discovery, and a life-changing milestone we’ll never forget. From the coastal charm of Nice to the golden elegance of Cannes, the artistic soul of Antibes, and the pure magic of Saint-Tropez, each destination unfolded like a new chapter in a love story.
Getting engaged at La Citadelle de Saint-Tropez was the emotional heart of it all—a perfect moment set against centuries of history and the endless blue of the Mediterranean. It’s a place we’ll return to in our hearts often, a symbol of where a new future together began.
Monaco added a final touch of thrill and elegance to our journey, with its cliffside glamour and the incredible experience of witnessing the Longines Global Champions Tour. It was a reminder of how travel can surprise you, not just with beauty, but with once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
The Riviera offered us everything—romance, adventure, luxury, and meaning. This corner of the world will forever hold a special place in our lives. And while we left with sun-kissed skin and full hearts, we know this is only the beginning of the many journeys we’ll take together.
You Might Also Like:
If you enjoyed this post on Luxury & Love: A Trip on the French Riviera, you might also like: Falling in Love with Romania: A Travel Story, Croatia in Real Life: Stunning Views and Vibes, Discover the Magic of Rio de Janeiro
