Alpes-Maritimes Tourism

The Alpes-Maritimes department gathers many treasures: sublime landscapes, preserved nature, cultural heritage, etc. In this place, famous in France and in the world, bathed in sunshine and which combines the sea and mountains, you can breathe deeply. The department has created various circuits allowing visitors to discover these treasures. Beaches with turquoise waters or wild garrigues, it is up to you to choose the itineraries you like, according to your level.

Nice and the Promenade des Anglais, the Principality of Monaco and its famous Rock, Cannes and its Croisette, Mandelieu-la-Napoule, Juan les Pins, etc. There is no shortage of famous places to visit in Alpes-Maritimes. Culture is also very present, with prestigious museums such as the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and its garden in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat or the Maeght Foundation in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and remarkable historical monuments such as the Saint-Michel-Archange Basilica in Menton or the fortified monastery on the Île Saint-Honorat.

In the hinterland, nature is luminous and is declined in very varied landscapes and protected natural sites. The Mercantour National Park, the Préalpes d’Azur Regional Natural Park, the Var Valley or the Vésubie Valley offer countless ideas for visits and escapades. Discover for example the perched village of Coaraze, or the protohistoric engravings of the Vallée des Merveilles at the foot of Mont Bégo.

In the markets of the small villages that inspired many artists, such as Chagall, Matisse or César, you can get to know the region’s terroir and gastronomy. Fougasse, tapenade and chard pie are all specialties to taste during your stay.

Nice

Nice is a destination that attracts many visitors. Located between the sea and the mountains, the city enjoys sunshine 300 days a year. Strolling through the small shady streets of the old town, alone or with a guide, admire the baroque-style buildings, with their red and yellow facades, which follow one another. Go to one of the port’s bistros to savor local dishes prepared with local produce: pissaladière, petits farcis, socca, zucchini flower fritters, etc.

The famous Promenade des Anglais is an 8 km long avenue that runs the length of the Baie des Anges. It was financed by the British who stayed there during the winter. Nowadays, children ride their bikes and roller blades, sportsmen and women practice running, and lovers walk along it, hand in hand, while enjoying the view. You can observe it from the park of the Castle Hill, a major tourist site in Nice. During your stay, let the transparent water come and tickle your toes on the small gray shingle beaches of Nice, after a stroll along the promenade.

In February the Nice carnival is held. Colorful floats and dancers parade through the streets day and night during this magnificent festival that celebrates the arrival of spring.

Cannes

If the city of Cannes is famous for its fine sand beaches, restaurants and luxury shops, it also has a preserved and peaceful historic district called Le Suquet. In these narrow streets, accessible by stairs, you can admire typical old houses.

Cannes is known all over the world for its festival and the red carpet stairs. Walk in the footsteps of celebrities as you stroll along the Croisette of Cannes. In the shade of the pines and palm trees, contemplate the large palaces that overlook the view of the sea. Many of these sumptuous hotels date back to the Belle Époque and are architectural treasures.

On the beaches of Cannes, you can practice many water sports: skiing, windsurfing, parasailing, scuba diving, etc. A catamaran ride on the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea will leave you with an unforgettable memory of your holiday in the Alpes-Maritimes.

Antibes

The 25 kilometers of fine sand or shingle beaches of Antibes attract many holidaymakers every year. This town on the French Riviera is appreciated for its large marina on which you will discover numerous cafés and small restaurants.

The old town is imbued with a charm typical of Provence. With its Fort Carré, it bears witness to the defensive history of Antibes. Built in the 16th century, this monument overlooks the Mediterranean from its rock and was improved by the military architect Vauban during his stay in Antibes.

In the south of the city, you will discover the Cap d’Antibes, a rocky spur on which are nestled sublime villas and sumptuous hotels with white Art Deco facades. By following the coastal path, you can walk around the Cap. At the top, from the Garoupe Lighthouse, admire a magnificent viewpoint stretching from the Esterel to Italy.

Menton

Menton, on the French Riviera, is the last French city before Italy. The high cliffs allow the city to benefit from a mild climate and sunshine, ideal for growing the famous Menton lemons that are renowned throughout the country.

In March, these fruits are celebrated during the Lemon Festival. With an air of carnival, unusual floats, made with different varieties of citrus fruits, parade through the streets. Elephant, castles, dragons or lions, no sculpture seems impossible to create for the city’s volunteers. Young and old alike can only marvel at this magnificent spectacle.

The Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange is a treasure trove of Baroque art. The interior of the basilica is a real work of art: the vaults are painted, and the columns are decorated with red brocade cloth.

Grasse

In Grasse, you can breathe deeply, because the air quality in this green setting, between mountains and forests, is exceptional. This perched village of Alpes-Maritimes is a holiday and resting place that has been classified as a “Ville d’Art et d’Histoire” (Town of Art and History). Grasse has preserved its heritage and its flower growing allowing the creation of eau de toilette and soaps.

The visit of the International Perfume Museum will allow you to learn more about the history of perfume. You will appreciate the incredible collection representing all aspects of perfumery, such as its industry, the traditions observed around the world and its marketing.

Staying in Alpes-Maritimes

In the mountains or on the French Riviera, prepare your stay in Alpes-Maritimes. We offer you a selection of accommodation in hotels, campsites or bed and breakfasts. Village, museums, monuments, we also suggest ideas for activities and visits. You can also contact the Tourist Office of the town or destination of your choice.