In 2026, the Côte d'Azur is no longer just synonymous with glamor and festivals: it is a playground for travelers seeking an authentic and sustainable experience. This article offers itineraries, places and practices for exploring Nice, Cannes, Monaco, Saint-Tropez and the hinterland in a different way.
Between less frequented coastal walks, farmers' markets, discreet museums and micro-adventures in the hinterland, you will leave with a different idea of the Riviera — more intimate, more local and more responsible.
Why leave otherwise?
The Mediterranean coast always attracts, but the experience can quickly seem like a quick trip. Going differently means giving yourself time: strolling, listening to local people, tasting the seasonality of the products and letting the surprise dictate the journey.
Taking priority to small roads, the regional train, the ferry or the bicycle reduces the carbon footprint and reveals forgotten panoramas – rocky coves, terraced vineyards and hills covered with umbrella pines. In 2026, these approaches have become essential for quality tourism.
Villages and hinterland: the secret soul of the Riviera
Stay away from the coast to discover hilltop villages like Èze, Gourdon, Biot or Gassin: their narrow streets, artisan workshops and belvederes offer a dive into Provençal history far from the crowds. The hinterland is also full of wine estates and olive groves open to visitors.
Micro-adventures — morning hike at sunrise, harvest from a producer, or night in a family guest house — allow for sincere encounters. These experiences are often the most memorable and give true meaning to the trip.
Coasts and alternative routes
Rather than systematically following the Promenade des Anglais, explore less frequented segments: the coastal paths around Cap d'Antibes, the kayak coves near Saint-Tropez or the ferry crossings between small ports. These journeys reveal an intimate Riviera that changes according to the light.
Regional lines and sea shuttles are practical options for connecting cities and towns without a car. Also consider electric bikes to follow the coast at your own pace while taking advantage of unplanned stops to taste a local specialty.
Gastronomy and local markets
Rediscovering the Riviera necessarily involves the taste buds: farmers' markets, freshly landed fish, artisan cheese makers and oil mills await you. Don't miss the markets in Nice (Cours Saleya) or the small stalls in Antibes for seasonal products.
The gastronomic scene today combines starred restaurants and neighborhood bistros. Look for chefs who promote local production and short menus — a sign of cuisine that respects resources and the seasons.
Culture, art and unsuspected places
Beyond the iconic festivals, the French Riviera is home to artists' houses, contemporary galleries and lesser-known museums that are worth a visit. Exploring these places allows us to understand the historical attraction of the region for painters and writers.
To contextualize your visit and deepen your knowledge of the region, consult reliable resources such as the Wikipedia page dedicated to the Côte d'Azur: Côte d'Azur — Wikipedia, which offers a useful historical and geographical overview.
Practical advice and responsible travel
In 2026, traveling differently involves concrete choices: favoring small accommodation, limiting journeys during peak periods and supporting local initiatives (circular economy, organic producers, independent guides).
To prepare your itinerary, local tourist offices often offer thematic circuits and information on sustainable mobility: consult the official platform for the region to find ideas and practical services Côte d'Azur France.
Experiences to note for 2026
Slow travel experiences to favor: breakfast with a producer, morning at the market, bike ride to an isolated cove and dinner with a local chef. It’s these little sequences that transform a stay into a lasting memory.
Also think about thematic getaways: wine routes, artisan workshops, guided hikes in the regional natural park or electric boat cabotage to discover the coast without noise or pollution.
Thanks for reading, and don't forget, Enjoy Life Moments!