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Where to Honeymoon on the French Riviera

honeymoon on boat

The French Riviera, the country’s south-eastern Mediterranean coast, has been attracting newlyweds, basking in their honeymoon glory, from all over the globe for decades. Quelle surprise – few can resist the myriad charms of this postcard-perfect travel destination. Blue skies, sea views, mouth-watering cuisine; romance is in the air wherever you turn.

Of course, every couple is different. An ideal date for your honeymoon might look like a sunrise hike. Another may favour a five-course tasting menu. The true beauty of the French Riviera is in its variety. No matter your lifestyle or interests, you’ll be spoiled for choice along the Côte d’Azur. Here are our top seven must-see stops that will make you fall in love all over again.

Nice

honeymoon on the beach

Nice is considered the capital of the French Riviera. This vibrant seaside city, is nestled between the Alps and the shores of the Baie des Anges. It offers natural beauty beyond compare.

Outdoorsy types will find themselves lost in the splendour of its pebbly beaches, rolling hills and verdant gardens. As well as being a geographical gem, Nice is home to a host of architectural delights. Anyone can appreciate the allure of its terracotta rooftops. But for those with a deeper cultural curiosity, we recommend a trip to St. Nicholas’ Cathedral, a feat of Byzantine-style Russian architecture, and Cimiez, the site of the Roman town Cemenelum.

Among Nice’s notable former residents are famed artists Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall, whose priceless works can be admired in the eponymous Musée Matisse and Marc Chagall National Museum. Nice is an epicurean’s paradise, offering Michelin-star fare as well as cheap eats like pissaladière and socca. Also you need not break the bank to experience the best of Nice with your significant other – a simple stroll along the Promenade Des Anglais makes for a memorable date.

Saint-Tropez

honeymoon in Nice

For those who like to celebrate their honeymoon in style, Saint-Tropez is the place to go.

A 90-minute drive from neighbouring Nice, this coastal town has long been a magnet for society’s upper crust. Along with its bustling nightlife, swanky hotels and glamorous yachts, it’s hard to believe this high-class hot spot was once a sleepy fishing village.

You won’t be stuck for date ideas in Saint-Tropez, whether you prefer to embrace the glitz or keep things low-key. Experience the sights by sea on a private boat charter. Soak up the sun on one of its many white sandy beaches. Share a Tarte Tropézienne, an indulgent dessert popularised by Brigitte Bardot in the ’60s. Also, there are plenty of luxury resorts to choose from, including the Hotel Pan Dei Paleis. The story goes that a French general fell madly in love with the Princess of Punjab in the 1830s. To prove his devotion to his bride, he commissioned the hotel to be built in her honour. Where better to stay on your honeymoon?

Aix-En-Provence

honeymoon and flowers

Aix-En-Provence is a classy college city about 30km north of Marseille. This seriously charming stop is perfect for couples looking for a slice of Parisian life on the Côte d’Azur. While Aix-En-Provence lacks a coastline, you won’t find yourself bored in its lively, aesthetic centre. It is a joy to wander, with its busy boulevards, large open squares and magnificent fountains. Also, sample some local wine as you admire the 17th- and 18th-century architecture that characterises this cultural haven. Art enthusiasts may know Aix-En-Provence as the birthplace of legendary post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, whose revolutionary works are on display at the nearby Musée Granet. Also, there are plenty of chic boutiques for you to browse as you meander through the streets. An authentic and immersive spot with plenty of talking points for you and your honeymoon partner.

Antibes

couple holding hands on the beach on their honeymoon

Moreover, Antibes is another standout stop you should not miss along the French Riviera. This ancient town is between Cannes and Nice with a glittering coastline home to picturesque beaches and yacht-lined ports. Nonetheless its unspoiled beauty makes Antibes an artist’s dreamland, inspiring masters like Graham Greene and Pablo Picasso. The latter featured the town in many of his iconic paintings, some of which are on display in the Musée Picasso near the centre. Also Cap D’Antibes is just beyond the city limits for honeymooners seeking an active retreat. Here there is a you can walk a scenic coast, surrounded by lush greenery, rocky shores and crystal-clear water. Jazz à Juan is a world-famous jazz music festival, held annually in Juan-les-Pins that celebrates the best the genre has to offer. Attracting the likes of Stevie Wonder and Pink Floyd, this star-studded event is a must for music lovers!

Cannes

honeymoon on bikes

Cannes is a playground for the rich and famous. However, you need not be a celebrity to have a ball in this beachfront city! Its affluence is unmistakable- at every glance, your eyes will see exclusive restaurants, designer boutiques and luxury sports cars. If you are travelling on a budget, pass the time by people-watching as you ramble along the Promenade de la Croisette. Besides Cannes is a beachgoer’s paradise with its soft sandy shores and bright turquoise waters. Movie buffs flock to the French Riviera each May for the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Basically, red carpets, flashing cameras, a-list stars; the electrifying atmosphere makes for an unforgettable experience with your partner.

Monte Carlo

honeymoon in Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo, a world-famous district of Monaco, sits at the base of the Maritime Alps. Indeed, this tiny municipality has a modest population of fewer than 40,000 people. And what it lacks in size, it makes up for in style tenfold. Most honeymooners need only a day or two at this extravagant stop. Known for its lavish hotels, clubs and casinos, this bon vivant’s wonderland offers visitors a taste of the good life. Also, the main attraction is the Monte Carlo Casino of which James Bond is a regular patron. Do not miss this opulent, Belle Époque complex, whether you are a gambler or not. Of course, there is more to Monte-Carlo than blackjack. For couples who prefer educational excursions, the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco is one of the world’s best aquariums and is home to a 450,000-litre shark tank. 

Cassis

Couple laughing on their honeymoon

A true hidden gem of the French Riviera, Cassis is a fishing commune in the department of Bouches-du-Rhône, east of Marseille. This pretty portside town has a lazy atmosphere that is ideal for couples seeking a relaxed French getaway. Nature lovers will be on cloud nine in this highly-protected district with its jaw-dropping panoramas and towering sea cliffs. Even so, Cassis is located right beside Les Calanques, a formation of rocky limestone coves surrounded by serene Mediterranean waters. Explore this magnificent natural reserve by foot on a hiking excursion. Or if you prefer to travel by sea, there are plenty of private and public boat charters available nearby. After a long day of sightseeing, refuel at one of Cassis’ many upmarket bistros and bars. 

Without a doubt, your honeymoon is not just a vacation. So, ake your stay extra special with a private boat charter from Rent A Boat. With multiple locations along the French Riviera, we offer a romantic 2-hour boat charter package with a complimentary bottle of champagne on arrival. Simply reserve on our website or get in touch at [email protected] for more information. The adventure of a lifetime awaits you….