Cote d'Azur, France Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Cote d’Azur, also known as the French Riviera, is a picturesque region located along the Mediterranean coast of southeastern France. With its stunning beaches, charming towns, and vibrant culture, it has been a popular destination for tourists and celebrities alike for decades. From the glitz and glamour of cities like Cannes and Nice to the tranquil beauty of small villages like Eze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Cote d’Azur offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled getaway, this region will surely captivate and enchant you with its unique blend of luxury and laid-back charm.

Why Cote d'Azur, France?

  • Cote d'Azur is part of the French Riviera, a popular tourist destination.
  • The region is known for its mild Mediterranean climate and stunning beaches.
  • The seaside town of Saint-Tropez is a popular destination for celebrities.
  • Cote d'Azur is known for its production of wine and olive oil.
  • The region is home to some of the world's most luxurious resorts and hotels.

Cote d'Azur, France Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
54° F
41° F
February
55° F
43° F
March
57° F
45° F
April
63° F
48° F
May
68° F
54° F
June
75° F
61° F
July
81° F
66° F
August
81° F
66° F
September
77° F
61° F
October
70° F
55° F
November
61° F
48° F
December
55° F
43° F

Average Rainfall

January
3.1 inches
February
3.2 inches
March
2.9 inches
April
2.1 inches
May
2 inches
June
1.5 inches
July
0.6 inches
August
1.6 inches
September
2.6 inches
October
3.9 inches
November
4.1 inches
December
3.4 inches

Overview

While the world’s glitterati descend on Cannes in the spring, this glamorous seafront spot is at its best in the height of the fabulous French summer. Overlook sparkling mega-yachts moored in the curve of La Croisette from your elaborate belle-epoque villa in the hills of exclusive La Californie, the turquoise-tinged Mediterranean coast laid out before you. From here, you’re perfectly poised to experience some of Europe’s most coveted resorts, from the golden-age glamour of Nice to the sparkling shores of St. Tropez.

History

The Cote d’Azur, also known as the French Riviera, is a stunning stretch of coastline in southeastern France that has been captivating visitors for centuries. With its crystal-clear waters, picturesque villages, and luxurious resorts, it is no wonder that this region has become a favorite destination for travelers from all over the world.

The history of the Cote d’Azur can be traced back to ancient times when the Greeks and Romans first settled in the area. It was known as the Ligurian coast and was primarily used as a trading post due to its strategic location between Italy and Spain. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that the region began to gain popularity as a tourist destination.

In the mid-1800s, the Cote d’Azur caught the attention of the British upper class, who were drawn to the mild climate and beautiful scenery. They began building grand villas and palaces along the coast, turning the area into a glamorous playground for the wealthy. The town of Cannes, which had been a small fishing village, quickly grew into a bustling resort town with the construction of the iconic Carlton Hotel.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Cote d’Azur also became a haven for artists and writers. Artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Paul Cezanne were drawn to the region’s vibrant colors and stunning landscapes. The town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, with its charming cobblestone streets and quaint cafes, became a popular spot for artists to gather and create.

In the post-war years, the Cote d’Azur continued to attract the rich and famous, with celebrities such as Brigitte Bardot and Grace Kelly visiting the region. The Cannes Film Festival, which began in 1946, further solidified the area’s reputation as a playground for the rich and famous.

Today, the Cote d’Azur remains a popular destination for travelers looking for a mix of luxury, history, and natural beauty. From the charming village of Eze to the glitz and glamour of Monaco, this stunning stretch of coastline continues to captivate visitors with its charm and allure.

Transportation on Cote d'Azur, France

Getting to Cote d'Azur, France and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Visa: Check French Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
  • Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
  • Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
  • Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
  • Arrival Form: Complete if required.
  • COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Europe for American citizens; European countries typically include departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

  • Non-EU/EEA tourists may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Ensure all occupants, including passengers in the back seat, wear seat belts.
  • Children under 10 or less than 135 cm in height must use an appropriate child safety seat.
  • Adhere to speed limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h; Non-urban roads: 80-90 km/h; Dual carriageways (expressways): 110-130 km/h; Motorways (autoroutes): 130-130 km/h
  • Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
  • Vehicles coming from the right have priority unless road signs indicate otherwise. Always be cautious at intersections.
  • Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout and give way to the right.
  • Many highways have tolls; pay attention to toll booths and consider electronic toll devices available with some rental cars.
  • Use headlights at all times, even during the day.
  • In case of an emergency, call 112 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.

Local Transportation

France has a robust and efficient transportation system that makes it easy for travelers to get around the country. From high-speed trains to regional buses, there are plenty of options for getting from one city to another. The Paris Metro is a popular and convenient way to navigate the capital city, while rental cars are a good choice for exploring the countryside. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available in major cities. Additionally, France has an extensive network of bike lanes, making cycling a popular and eco-friendly mode of transportation.

Know Before You Go...® - Cote d'Azur, France Travel Tips

Before making their way to Cote d'Azur, France , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Cote d'Azur, France even more relaxing.

Capital: Nice
Population: 2,000,000 (estimated)
Size: 1,400 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 220/240
Time: zone:+1 (GMT/UTC )
Official Language: The official language of Cote d'Azur is French, however, due to its location on the Mediterranean coast, many people also speak the secondary language of Occitan or Provençal, which is a Romance language closely related to French.
Currency:
  • The official currency of Cote d'Azur is the Euro (€), which is used throughout France. It is recommended to exchange your currency to Euros before arriving in Cote d'Azur, as it may be difficult to find currency exchange services outside of major cities.
  • Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Cote d'Azur, particularly in popular tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, but some places may accept American Express and Diners Club as well. It is always a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with using your card abroad.
  • ATMs can be found throughout Cote d'Azur, especially in major cities
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping and taxes in Cote d'Azur, also known as the French Riviera, are an important part of the region's culture and economy.
  • Tipping is not mandatory: unlike in some other countries, tipping is not expected or required in Cote d'Azur. However, it is always appreciated for good service.
  • Service charges may be included: in many restaurants, a service charge of 15% is automatically added to the bill. This means that you do not need to leave an additional tip unless you want to.
  • Tipping in bars and cafes: it is not customary to tip in bars or cafes, but you can leave a small amount if you are particularly satisfied with the service.
  • Tipping in taxis: tipping in taxis is not expected, but you can round up the fare or leave a tip.
Dress Code: The dress code in Cote d'Azur is typically casual and chic, with a focus on high-end fashion and effortless elegance.
Topography: Cote d'Azur is a stunning coastal region in southeastern France characterized by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming towns overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Telephone: 33, 04

Cote d'Azur, France Weddings and Honeymoons

Vacationers don’t just stay in Cote d’Azur, France villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons!

See our favorite France villas for weddings.