Wander Quieter Markets

While Cannes is best known for its red-carpet events, the Marche Forville is a traditional market specializing in quality produce from local farmers; here, you will find fresh fish, seasonal vegetables, cheese, and more. 

There is also an Italian section where you can purchase fresh pasta. If you are in Nice, be sure to visit the Marche du Cours Saleye, a vibrant open-air market full of flowers, produce, and local delicacies. When enjoying the French Riviera, there are plenty of options to skip the tourist crowds and soak in the charm of these lesser-known market experiences. 

Visit Hilltop Villages

For an idyllic escape, head inland to discover the array of hilltop villages. The Luberon is a region full of incredible countryside with vineyards and orchards. Stroll through the spring at Fontaine de Vaucluse and explore the hilltop village of Gordes. 

Nearby, be sure to visit one of the most beautiful villages in France, Roussillon. These villages offer a glimpse into the slower-paced lifestyle of the area, just set back from the busy coastline.

Create Your Own Scent

The French Riviera isn’t just about beautiful coastal views; it is also home to the world’s perfume capital, Grasse. This charming village has a long-established perfume industry dating back centuries. 

For a unique experience, visit Villa Fragonard, one of the oldest perfume houses in France, where you can create your own bespoke fragrance. 

After a workshop here, take a stroll through Grasse’s historic center, along the cobbled streets and winding between the hidden courtyards.

Swim Off The Beaten Track

While the beaches of the Riviera are world-famous, the real magic is in its hidden coves and islands. Just off the coast of Cannes, the Lerins Islands provide a peaceful retreat from the crowded mainland. 

A yacht charter is ideal for transporting you to these picturesque islands. Spend days on anchor, exploring hidden bays and diving into the clear waters, or enjoy hiking and exploring historic forts ashore, immersing yourself in a peaceful nature retreat just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle.

Escape Into Menton’s Gardens

The last French town on the Riviera before entering the Italian border, Menton is known for its lush gardens and citrus groves. Famous for its annual Lemon Festival, the town boasts a collection of exquisite botanical gardens that date back to the 18th century and are ideal for exploring. 

While many visitors flock to the waterfront, the Val Rahmeh Botancial remains a peaceful sanctuary to experience. You can wander among exotic plants, towering palm trees, and fragrant blooms here. 

Savor Local Cuisine

A visit to the French Riviera is far from complete without indulging in its cuisine. However, be sure to skip the tourist-laden restaurants and head to smaller, family-run restaurants where the locals dine. 

Seafood lovers should visit Villefranche-sur-Mer, a quieter town just over the hill from Nice, where you can try a bouillabaisse, a rich Provencal fish stew, pairing it with a glass of local rose. 

Hike The Trails

For those who want space away from the crowded towns and villages along the coastline, the French Riviera offers a selection of stunning coastal hikes that provide breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. 

The Sentier du Littoral, stretching along Cap d’Antibes, is perfect for a scenic hike. For a more rewarding trail, the Nietzsche Path in Eze takes you from the hilltop village down to the coastline. 

While the French Riviera is known for its luxurious lifestyle for a good reason, experiencing it like a local reveals a more authentic, yet equally impressive, side that is full of history, culture, and beauty.