The 5 best road trips to explore the Côte d’Azur

From sun-drenched coastal towns to charming hilltop villages, the Côte d’Azur is packed with stunning road trip routes. Whether you’re chasing sea views, floral landscapes, or rich history, here are five unforgettable drives through the French Riviera to inspire your next adventure.

1. The Classic Coastal Cruise

Best for: Riviera charm and beach hopping
Route: Saint-Tropez to Nice | Distance: 95km | Time: 4–5 days

Start in stylish Saint-Tropez, exploring the lively Vieux Port and lounging on Plage Pampelonne. Don’t miss a bite of the legendary Tarte Tropézienne, especially at the Place des Lices.

From there, cruise to Port Grimaud, nicknamed the “Little Venice of Provence,” thanks to its pretty canals and colorful buildings. Make a beachy stop in Sainte-Maxime, then roll into Cannes to stroll along La Croisette and feel the glitz of the film festival vibe.

Next up is Antibes, where cobbled old town streets and the Picasso Museum await, plus a relaxing beach stop at Plage de la Gravette.

End your trip in Nice, strolling the Promenade des Anglais and getting lost in the flavors, shops, and scenes of Vieux Nice. Hike up to Colline du Château for some of the best views along the Riviera.

Local tip: Summer traffic can be intense. Travel midweek and start early to beat the crowds.

2. The Mimosa Trail

Best for: Winter beauty and blooming landscapes
Route: Bormes-les-Mimosas to Grasse | Distance: 130km | Time: 2–3 days

This is a floral fantasy in winter. Known as La Route du Mimosa, this trail bursts into life between January and March. Begin in Bormes-les-Mimosas, with its cobbled streets and sweeping sea views, then make your way to Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer to visit the lush Jardin des Méditerranées.

Continue to Sainte-Maxime, where mimosa trees line the roads and coastal views steal the show. Then stop in Saint-Raphaël, a quiet seaside retreat perfect for unwinding.

Next, arrive in Mandelieu-La-Napoule, the Riviera’s mimosa capital, known for its festive Mimosa Festival every February.

Wrap up your journey in Grasse, the world’s perfume capital. Visit famous fragrance houses like Fragonard and Molinard, and drop by the International Perfume Museum to learn how mimosa scents are turned into luxury perfumes.

3. La Route Napoléon

Best for: History lovers and scenic mountain views
Route: Golfe-Juan to Grenoble | Distance: 320km | Time: 3 days

Follow Napoleon’s famous return from exile in 1815 along La Route Napoléon. Start in Golfe-Juan, where he first landed, and head to Cannes for a beachfront lunch.

Your next stop is Digne-les-Bains, full of charm and home to quirky museums like the Musée Gassendi. Take in the lavender fields and explore the surrounding Bléone Valley.

Then drive north to Sisteron, a dramatic cliffside town dominated by its imposing citadel. Be sure to shop the local Marché Provençal for fresh cheeses, honey, and seasonal fruits.

Pause in Gap for a taste of the Alps — and don’t leave without trying tourtons (crisp pastry pockets) from Papi Ours. Then finally arrive in Grenoble, where Napoleon’s journey ended. Ride the cable car up to the Bastille for breathtaking Alpine views.

Local tip: Spring and summer are the best times to see lavender in bloom around Digne-les-Bains.

4. The Wine Route

Best for: Sipping your way through Provence
Route: Nice to Bandol | Distance: 190km | Time: 4 days

Calling all wine lovers — this scenic route winds through the best vineyards of the Côte d’Azur.

Start in Bellet AOP, perched above Nice. Known for complex whites and unique reds, this tiny wine region offers tastings at Clos Saint-Vincent and Domaine de la Source, both with panoramic vineyard views.

Next, drive to the Mont Sainte-Victoire area of the Côtes de Provence AOP, where rosé is king. Sip citrusy pinks at Domaine de Saint-Ser, then stop in Aix-en-Provence for a glass over dinner in the town’s vibrant center.

Onward to Cassis, where cliffside vineyards produce aromatic white wines. Try a tasting at Clos Sainte-Magdeleine, followed by a harborfront seafood meal that pairs perfectly with the local whites.

End in Bandol, known for bold reds from Mourvèdre grapes. Visit Domaine Tempier or Château de Pibarnon for structured reds and layered rosés with stunning vineyard backdrops.

5. The Valley of Marvels

Best for: Hiking, history, and hidden gems
Route: Castillon to Vallée des Merveilles | Distance: 80km | Time: 2 days

This lesser-known journey starts in Castillon, a quiet hilltop village with scenic views and peaceful vibes. A short drive brings you to Sospel, home to a medieval bridge and charming town square—perfect for breakfast and a coffee stop.

Continue to Breil-sur-Roya, a riverside gem ideal for lunch at Le Flavie, a cozy spot offering home-cooked French fare.

The highlight is Vallée des Merveilles, tucked inside Mercantour National Park. This breathtaking alpine area is filled with ancient rock carvings, wild landscapes, and incredible hiking trails. You’ll need a guided tour for deeper exploration of the carvings, but even the main trail is a wonder.

Local tip: Check in with local tourism offices in advance if you want to hike off the main trail — many areas are protected and require guided access.

Tips for Driving the Côte d’Azur

• Road conditions: Generally excellent, but some village roads are narrow and winding — drive cautiously and allow extra time.
• Summer traffic: Peak season brings crowds. Travel early in the day or during spring/autumn for a more relaxed experience.
• Parking: In cities like Nice, Cannes, and Antibes, parking can be tricky. Use public parking lots and expect to walk a bit.
• Tolls: Many highways, like the A8, have tolls. Have cash or a card handy unless your rental includes an electronic pass.