Venere Travel Blog - It's our business where you sleep!

The French Riviera is possibly the most glamorous area in Europe and so is a strong contender to be the most glamorous part of the whole world. Once the preserve of films stars and royalty, the area still maintains an atmosphere of chic sophistication in which visitors can immerse themselves and live, if only for a short time, the lifestyle of a demigod.

Photo by serge melki

Monaco manages the unique feat of being the star attraction of the French Riviera without being part of France. The tiny principality has been synonymous with wealth and glamour since the fairytale wedding between Grace Kelly, Hollywood royalty, and Prince Ranier, literal royalty, in 1956. Visitors can gamble in the casino made famous by James Bond, watch the luxury yachts sitting quietly at anchor in the stunning harbour or sit and watch the world go past with a glass of champagne. Visitors on a budget will want to avoid Monaco.

Nice may lack some of the glamour of nearby Monaco but it is certainly more accessible for people who do not have millions sitting in the bank. The coastline is spectacular and visitors can cycle or walk along some beautiful stretches of seashore but there are no real beaches to talk of since the coast is rocky and not sandy. If it is beaches that you want then you will have to head further along the coast from Nice itself.

Made famous by its prestigious film festival held each May, Cannes is a delightful place in its own right. There are various museums, churches and art galleries to see but the main attraction is sitting in a cafe along the shore and watching people go by. Cannes is accessible to those on a budget but is chocked full of things which will tempt you to spend, spend, spend, especially the exciting nightlife. Hiring a boat is a great way to see the town from a different and more exclusive angle, or you can just dip your toes in the sea from one of the many piers and jetties to cool off.

Inland slightly from the blockbuster Riviera destinations on the coast is the small town of Grasse, noted for being the centre of production for many of the world’s best perfumes. Visitors based on the coast can come inland for a day trip and either visit the perfumeries that are strewn around the village or head out into the hills and enjoy walking through the unspoilt countryside before heading back for refreshments.

St Tropez has suffered the ignominy recently of becoming associated with the orange glow many women display as a substitute for a real suntan. The town itself is more associated with money than glamour and visitors are more likely to see hordes of cruise ship passengers swarming ashore hoping for a celebrity spot than running into anybody famous. In general the town is brash, crass and overpriced in a region where that term ceases to have much real meaning.

Hotel Deals in Nice, French Riviera

Hotel De La Mer
Hôtel De La Mer is a welcoming 2 star hotel in Nice Old Town (Vieille Ville), directly in Massena Square, where Parades of Lights and Carnival Parades start.

Ajoupa Baie des Anges Vacation Rental
Located in the center of Nice, Ajoupa Baie des Anges apartment is ideal for a great holiday in the French Riviera, both if you travel with a group of friends or with your families!

Hotel De Garlande, Avignon
Hotel De Garlande is a 2 star hotel situated in the center of Avignon, close to numerous art galleries, upscale boutiques and speciality shops selling traditional products.