Europe's biggest marine park, the famous Marineland theme park, was founded in 1970 in the exceptional setting of Antibes, on the French Riviera. Covering 10 hectares, it is home to around forty animal species including the killer whale, its mascot and star attraction. Marine mammals live alongside birds and reptiles from all over the globe. The huge aquariums exhibit many surprising specimens from all of the world's seas.

You will have a number of opportunities to meet the animals. Discover the sea lion's endearing personality. Have an unforgettable time playing with the dolphins, accompanied by their keepers. Be safely immersed in the water to see sharks and all kinds of sea-dwelling creatures. Get close to the killer whales and chat with their keepers. If you like, you can even take a guided tour, alone or in a small group, to meet the animals with the park team.

Daily performances with killer whales, dolphins and sea lions invite you to admire their physical performance, skills and intelligence. After these impressive shows, the presenters and keepers are happy to answer visitors' questions.

Many more experiences also await you. Immerse yourself in the world of marine animals by watching a dynamic show in a 132-seat 5D movie theatre. Discover Antarctica, Marineland's penguin area, which is home to two particular species, king penguins and Southern rockhopper penguins. Enter the shark tunnel and tremble as you come face to face with these legendary creatures! Marvel at the tropical aquariums, admiring all types of specimens from starfish to green morays.

Through its teaching and educational mission, the team aims to share its passion for the marine world and its interest in the protection of aquatic habitats. The Marineland association helps the environment by working for the conservation of diversity, preservation of species (including the polar bear) and research (especially on the topic of cetaceans).

You can buy combined tickets for admission to fun neighbouring attractions: the Aquasplash water park and its 25 attractions, the Kid's Island children's amusement park, as well as the giant Adventure Golf crazy golf course, in Jules Verne's world of adventures.

Nestling in the hills behind Nice, in Biot, Alpes-Maritimes, this museum is dedicated to the famous avant-garde artist who was a painter, sculptor, ceramicist, illustrator and draughtsman, and lived on the premises in the Mas Saint-André a few months before his death in 1955.

From Impressionism to Cubism, the artist's works form a unique collection of paintings, drawings and ceramics, particularly well showcased in this spacious building, which is acclaimed by visitors for the high artistic quality of its permanent and temporary collections.

Regular events, "music at the museum", "films at the museum" and lectures regularly take place on the site, not forgetting guided tours with or without audio-guides, and children's tours and workshops.

In the pretty, idyllic setting of the Mediterranean park planted with stone pines and featuring sculptures and huge mural mosaics, take a break to visit the refreshment stall and appreciate the tranquillity of this peaceful haven, an ideal place for contemplation.

Since the 1950s, the charming medieval village of Biot has become France's glassblowing capital. A centre for craft, this community reflects the know-how of its master glassblowers, who have made bubbled glass their trademark. This type of glass is dotted with small air bubbles and more than 300 examples can now be admired at the glassworks. In total, nearly 500,000 pieces are on display at the Biot glassworks: vases, stemmed glasses, sculptures and other works of art reflect the establishment's rich heritage. Just like the rich soil of Provence, these objects come in a thousand and one colours (blue, orange, green, yellow...) and are the product of unequalled attention to detail: the master glassmaker's trade is one of the rarest in France due to its meticulousness. In order to watch these glass artisans in action, don't forget to visit the glassworkers' hall: you will be able to see them blowing and shaping these inimitable pieces.

Good to know: every year in July, thirty or so artists are welcomed for Les Verriales, on a specific glass-related theme. This is an opportunity to discover creations made specially for the event, combining modernism and traditions.

Nestling on the French Riviera between Nice and Cannes, the old town of Antibes stands on the shores of the Mediterranean and is an explosion of colour. The colours are particularly stunning in the free commune of Le Safranier: the cream façades are framed by lush vegetation in a vast palette of pink, yellow, red, purple... This part of old Antibes, surrounded by ramparts, offers lovely walks on quiet and shady streets, where many houses have Provençal louvred shutters.

Continue this bucolic outing to Cap d'Antibes and visit the little harbour of L'Olivette, where multicoloured "pointu" boats bob up and down, looking like a French Riviera postcard. More athletic visitors can don their hiking boots to explore the nearby trails, starting with the famous Customs Officers' Path (Chemin des Douaniers), also known as Tire-Poil, 5 km in length and running along the entire cape. This stunning itinerary overlooks the palette of blues around the craggy rock, as the cicadas' song and the delightful scents of the pine grove fill the air! After all that exercise, nothing beats a dip in the crystalline sea: Cap d'Antibes has some remarkable beaches for snorkelling. Although the beaches offer a long expanse of sand, there are many rocks on the sea bed once you enter the water, making it a very appealing place for aquatic wildlife. Isolated coves are also dotted along the coast.

If you feel like a change in altitude during your trip to Cap d'Antibes, go up to the Garoupe lighthouse, which offers an incredible view of some top sites on the French Riviera, like Nice, Cannes, Juan-les-Pins and the Lérins Islands.

Continue your journey towards Antibes town centre, in order to discover some of its major cultural sites. The Picasso Museum, housed inside the majestic Grimaldi Castle, an immense stone building overlooking the sea, possesses some major works by the artist: La joie de vivre (Joy of Living) and Satyr and Faun were painted in Antibes during the painter's stay there. Ceramics, sculptures and paintings are displayed across this vast space along with other works of modern art. Talking of which, remember to visit the museum terrace where contemporary sculptures in ebony tones look down on the coastline.

Outside the old town is the charming Vauban harbour and its pretty white boats. People especially like to go there for its great restaurants celebrating the delicious flavours of neighbouring Italy. And if you are there in the morning, drop by Antibes' Provençal market, brimming with local products to take away for a tasty picnic by the sea!

The Picasso Museum is based in the Grimaldi Castle in Antibes, a listed Historic Monument owned by the Grimaldi family from the 14th century to the French Revolution.

Initially known as the "Grimaldi Museum", in 1966 it became the "Picasso Museum", as the famous Spanish painter was invited to use part of the castle as a studio by the curator in 1946. The "Picasso room" was inaugurated in 1947, displaying a total of 23 paintings and 44 drawings created on site.

After two years of work in the 2000s, the current museum enables visitors to rediscover the chronology of the "Antibes Picassos", from the post-war period to the late 40s, with major works by the artist: Joy of Living, Sea Urchin Eater, Woman with Sea Urchins, Still Life with Owl and Three Sea Urchins, Goat, Satyr, Faun and Centaur with Trident, etc.

Visitors can also admire works by Nicolas de Staël, as well as a rich collection of modern art representing the great 20th-century art movements. On the terrace are sculptures by Joan Miró, Germaine Richier, Bernard Pagès and Anne and Patrick Poirier.

Born in Villeneuve-Loubet, the chef, restaurateur and food writer Auguste Escoffier, "the king of cooks and the cook of kings", modernised and brought international recognition to French cuisine.

The Museum of Culinary Art was created in 1966 in the house where he was born, in the old village.

Gourmets and enquiring minds can admire a variety of utensils such as roasting spits, braisers, tripe pots, cake and chocolate moulds, sugar creations, chocolate sculptures, dressed tables and a collection of 1,500 old and modern menus.

Cherry on the cake: at the end of your visit, in July and August, you can sample Peach Melba, the famous dessert created in 1893 by Auguste Escoffier!

Nestling to the west of the famous Cap d'Antibes, the seaside resort of Juan-les-Pins reflects the pleasant atmosphere of the Riviera. This desirable little town on the French Riviera has many luxurious dwellings: the palaces, villas and luxury hotels facing the Mediterranean, and the gardens fragrant with delightful Provençal scents. You can still guess what this immense pine forest bordering sandy beaches might have been like before it was transformed into a legendary seaside resort, frequented by the greatest artists through the ages. Today, you can still enjoy its beautiful beaches of golden sand and the seclusion of its charming little coves.

You obviously have to experience the lively local nightlife: discos, a casino and late-opening shops make it a paradise for night owls, who flock to the seaside bars.

As well as its vibrant atmosphere, Juan-les-Pins hosts a music event that further burnishes its image as a party town. Since the end of the Second World War, the town has established itself as the place to be for jazz fans, and has hosted famous artists like Sidney Bechet, Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington. Even today, the big names in jazz perform there in July during the Jazz à Juan festival in the Pinède Gould park.

If you need a little time out from all this activity, take a breather at the Exflora park, spanning around 5 hectares. It has approximately 330 plant species spread around a large olive grove. There are brilliant examples of the various Mediterranean garden styles, from Ancient Rome to the 19th-century Riviera. Don't miss the immense water path, which is 500 metres long and flows past stunning rose bushes all the way to the sea.

This charming village perched between the Col de Vence pass and the Mediterranean offers visitors some magnificent views. On the sea side, there is an unobstructed view all the way to the Cap d'Antibes: a scene that has inspired many a painter, charmed by those Provençal colours. Modigliani, Matisse, Soutine and Utrillo fell under the spell of the light in this medieval town and committed those stunning views to canvas. At the entrance to the village, in the shade of the big plane trees, the famous Place du jeu de boules, immortalised by the pétanque games of Lino Ventura and Yves Montand, is always a must-see.

Endowed with bastioned ramparts during the Renaissance in order to withstand Charles Quint's army, Saint-Paul-de-Vence still has some vestiges of its eventful past. The old stone houses on narrow side streets neighbour grand arcades, winding flights of steps and an old fountain whose peaceful babbling song creates a soothing atmosphere, typical of France's tranquil southern villages.

Stop in front of a few of the region's renowned art galleries in order to contemplate the colourful works of art, a wonderful reflection of Provence's rich heritage. A walk to the village centre is a good idea in order to visit the collegiate church, built in the 12th century then extended in the 17th century. There you can admire a magnificent painting of Saint Catherine of Alexandria by Tintoretto, along with a beautiful Way of the Cross in walnut wood.

Before leaving Saint-Paul-de-Vence, be sure to visit the Maeght Foundation, one of the renowned attractions of this village in the heights of the French Riviera. This bastion of modern art houses one of the most important collections of sculptures, etchings and paintings of the 20th century, including work by Marc Chagall, Pierre Bonnard and Fernand Léger. A walk in its garden dotted with sculptures is a must, as is a trip to the patio, where a sumptuous mosaic pool in Georges Braques' unmistakable style has pride of place. As you can see, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is brimming with countless treasures!

If you are staying in or passing through Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a famous village in Alpes-Maritimes, be sure to pay a visit to the Maeght Foundation. Named after the famous art dealer Aimé Maeght and his wife Marguerite, the foundation was created following a tragic event, the loss of their second child. Taking refuge in Saint-Paul-de-Vence while deep in mourning, Aimé Maeght received moral support from several great artists of the day, including Georges Braque and Fernand Léger, who encouraged him to create a venue dedicated to modern art. Based in a building that combines Mediterranean and avant-garde architecture, the Maeght Foundation was inaugurated in 1964 by André Malraux and today houses one of the country's most important collections of paintings, sculptures, etchings and drawings from the 20th century, with works by such famous artists as Marc Chagall, Fernand Léger, Pierre Bonnard and Georges Braque.

Entirely devoted to art, the sculpture garden provides a backdrop for works by first-class artists, like the Stabile by Alexander Calder and the fountain by Pol Bury. The inner patio is also worth a look, with a mosaic pool by Georges Braque, as are the central courtyard dedicated to Giacometti, and the Labyrinth, a monumental work by Miró filled with sculptures and ceramics!

The Maeght Foundation hosts temporary exhibitions all year round in this exceptional space, which is also designed to be a place for meetings and interaction with artists.

Parc Phoenix, a green space and listed Remarkable Garden (Jardin Remarquable) in the middle of Nice, is home to over 2,500 plant varieties and 70 animal species, in an enchanting Mediterranean setting. All your senses will be tingling in this exotic paradise where visitors wander amid fragrant discoveries and stunning sights!

Its pyramid-shaped greenhouse, the "Green Diamond", one of the most imposing in Europe with its 7,000 m² surface area and height of 25 metres, boasts a range of 6 tropical and subtropical climates. Exhibition rooms present art and science-themed areas designed to astonish, captivate, raise awareness and inform.

Children and adults can walk among mammals, birds, fish and reptiles, and discover the farm with its Falabella miniature horse, Göttingen pig and elegant dwarf Silkie hen. Plants also feature prominently in the park's various areas, including the desert oasis, the Provençal cabin where cypress and olive trees have pride of place, the valley of grasses, the island of bygone times with prehistoric plants, the collection of palm trees, the fragrant plants...

Parc Phoenix is Famille Plus certified, as a park specially designed for children. All year round, its leisure park offers activities and events, with tours and educational workshops, not forgetting the play areas where kids can have fun and let off steam!

The town of Cannes is world-famous as a bastion of the silver screen. Every year in May, it hosts the famous international film festival, whose reputation extends far beyond the borders of France. The event takes place in the Palais des Festivals, recognisable by its contemporary architecture all in white and glass, and its unmistakable steps with their vermilion red carpet, walked by celebrities from all over the world.

Apart from this illustrious jet set destination, travellers should also spend some time in Cannes' lesser-known streets, which nonetheless contain many treasures. Film buffs can keep the festivities going by admiring the murals dotted about the town. To pay homage to the great film icons, some façades are draped with vintage posters and brilliantly drawn pictures of movie icons. A good addition to any film-themed tour is the Chemin des Étoiles, where you can see celebrity handprints, just like on the Walk of Fame on Hollywood Boulevard.

Step out of the spotlight for a moment to explore the quieter parts of Cannes, where life runs its peaceful course. Start in the legendary neighbourhood of Le Suquet, a former fishing village now included in the old part of Cannes, set on a small hill overlooking the sea. Hills, narrow streets, bougainvillea and old buildings reflect the rich heritage of this district, whose history dates back to one century BC! To meet the locals, don't miss the Forville market, built at the end of the 19th century in Le Suquet. Artisans of sea and land meet there to unveil their fresh produce, forming a sublime palette of colours and aromas.

At the top of Le Suquet, take a stroll among the ruins of the old medieval castle, with a remarkably well-preserved square tower and machicolations. Head to the highest point in the district for a view over the entire town of Cannes and the surrounding area. To the north lie the peaks of the Alps. To the west, the Estérel corniche is recognisable by its red rocks and peaks which delight hikers and mountain bikers. To the south, the Lérins Islands emerge from the water. Located not far from Cannes, they offer a wonderful place to get away from the urban hustle and bustle. Among the treasures of the archipelago, Saint-Honorat Island, kept by monks, enjoys a particularly peaceful setting. You can taste the wines made at its abbey, to the soothing sound of cicadas.

In the area around the town, consider taking the Golden Corniche road, overlooking the Mediterranean and the Esterel massif, whose colours are reflected in a magnificent palette of greens, reds and blues.

Good to know: if you are in Cannes during the summer season, head to the International Pyrotechnic Art Festival, where the greatest pyrotechnicians create a magnificent sound and light show flooding the dark night.

In the heights of the French Riviera, this beautiful medieval town has managed to preserve its narrow streets and shady squares within its thousand-year-old walls, with the soothing song of the fountains in the background. Surrounded by olive trees, the town nestles at the foot of the Baous mountain range. A stone bell tower with geometric lines reaches above its ochre roofs, the very picture of a typical locality in the Nice hinterland.

Architecture enthusiasts will notice Vence's very particular layout: in the 14th century, the houses were built backing onto the ramparts in order to protect them. That's why these medieval constructions are among the best preserved in France! Admire the detail of the houses with blue-tinted louvred shutters along the old Roman road: they seem to tell the story of a whole era. Continue your journey through time all the way to Place Godeau, where you will notice an old Roman column which was probably part of a temple. The charming square is located at the foot of the imposing Cathedral of the Nativity of Mary, which overlooks the houses in the old town.

As you explore the heritage of Vence, you understand why so many painters made it their muse: Chagall, Matisse and Dubuffet walked its cobbled streets, won over by the view of the Mediterranean and the charm of its typical alleys and shady squares. Beyond the ramparts, you can continue your visit by heading towards the famous Place du Grand Jardin, dotted with lively café terraces.

Not far from the old town, don't miss the magnificent Rosary Chapel with colourful stained glass windows, designed and decorated by the famous artist Henri Matisse!

Good to know: every summer, Vence hosts Les Nuits du Sud, a music event featuring many artists from all over the world.

A sought-after destination for tourists from all over the world, the capital of the French Riviera nestles between the Mediterranean Sea and the nearby mountains, in turn draped in white and covered in vivid green.

The famous Promenade des Anglais runs along the seafront, a prestigious avenue where palm trees stand in front of beautiful Haussmannian homes and sumptuous Belle Époque hotels, like the Negresco or the Westminster. Take a seat on one of the many terraces facing the immense azure expanse of the Mediterranean, or sit right on the pebble beaches in shades of grey and blue. Sportier visitors can make the most of the dedicated lanes for cyclists and rollerbladers.

Keep on walking to explore the age-old heritage of the city known as "Nissa la bella". At the heart of Old Nice, wander the winding narrow streets with colourful houses that make this timeless place so charming, and discover buildings and Baroque churches like the Church of the Gesù, the Lascaris Palace and the Cathedral of St. Reparata. Stroll between the pale ochre façades with turquoise shutters, typical of authentic Provençal dwellings. Along the way, we strongly recommend sampling one of Nice's local ice creams, whose mouthwatering flavours are every bit as good as those of the city's Italian neighbour! Make the most of this walk to discover the local specialities. The neighbourhood is home to traditional small shops where the treasures of Provence have pride of place: lavender, spices, herbs, scented candles... Their fragrances mingle with that of the socca, an amazingly tasty corn-based pancake of international repute. Another unmissable place is the famous Cours Saleya, where florists, greengrocers and local producers proudly display their wares in an incredible palette of colours. On Mondays, a second-hand market takes place there. Night owls take note! The Cours Saleya is a lively place in the evening with its many restaurants, bars and café terraces.

Art-lovers on the other hand will want to pay a visit to some of the French Riviera's finest cultural sites, in particular the Matisse Museum, which offers a wonderful pictorial trail featuring some of his most celebrated works. Tucked away behind beautiful Mediterranean greenery, the building has a burgundy façade interspersed with pale louvered shutters. This amazing journey through the painter's city and its artistic developments is worth pairing with another unmissable attraction in Nice: the Marc Chagall National Museum. Imagined by the painter in the style of a house, the architecture of the museum engages in a dialogue with his creations, conceived in accordance with each space. Other cultural attractions like the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the International Museum of Naïve Art and the Archaeology Museum of Cimiez will delight any visitors who are thirsty for culture.

Then treat yourself to a pleasant walk on the Promenade du Paillon, inaugurated in 2013, running from the Promenade des Anglais to the National Theatre. Boasting a water mirror with numerous jets, this magnificent urban park invites you on a real botanical journey through its trees, shrubs and plants from faraway lands! Then head uphill to the remains of the 11th-century castle. The ruins overlook the ochre roofs of Old Nice along with the harbour, where pretty pleasure boats bob along the water. The charming garden at the Cimiez Monastery, adorned with roses, and the Phoenix Park with its huge tropical greenhouse, are also well worth a visit.

As well as its natural and architectural gems, Nice also offers an extensive programme of cultural events all year round. In February, the city is in full swing with the carnival and flower "battles" brightening up the place. In July, it's the turn of the Nice Jazz Festival, when big names in that musical genre play at the Cimiez Arena, making the most of the impressive setting and acoustics. No doubt about it, Nice is enchanting in a great many ways!

Born in Belarus when it was still attached to Tsarist Russia, and later naturalised French, the painter Marc Chagall spend much of his life on the French Riviera, especially Saint-Paul-de-Vence, where he lived for nearly 20 years.

Inaugurated in 1973, this museum about him on the Cimiez hill in Nice was founded in order to bring together his 17 paintings about the Bible's Message under one roof. Today it houses the most extensive public collection of his works, with over 4,000 paintings, gouaches, drawings, washes and pastels, inspired by secular or religious themes. The contemporary architecture favours understated walls and rigorous shapes, to better showcase the works on display.

Audio-guides, lecture-tours and educational activities for children are on offer to the public.

To round off the tour of the Chagall Museum, take the time to explore its lovely garden, where the main tree species are Mediterranean ones such as olive, pine, cypress and holm oak.

When he passed away in Nice in 1954, the famous French painter Henri Matisse bequeathed a considerable body of work to 20th-century art, and was a major influence on artists in the second half of the century. In 1963, the city of Nice paid tribute to the pioneer of Fauvism, who spent most of his life on the French Riviera, by opening a museum that today houses one of the world's most extensive collections of his works.

Based in the Villa des Arènes, a superb Genoese house built in the 17th century and painted in Mediterranean colours, located in the Arènes Park in Cimiez, the Matisse Museum documents the development of the artist's work and his exploration of colour and graphics. It offers an abundant and eclectic selection of paintings and gouache cut-outs, drawings, etchings and sculptures, as well as photographs and objects that once belonged to Henri Matisse.

At the end of your visit, take the time to enjoy a walk in the idyllic setting of the gardens on Cimiez hill, where the famous painter liked to walk among the olive trees and Roman ruins.

In the 17th century, the Lascaris Palace was the residence of the Lascaris-Vintimilles, one of Nice's most prominent aristocratic families. It was sold in 1942 to the City of Nice to be turned into a museum. A certified Museum of France (Musée de France) and Historic Monument (Monument Historique) since 1946, it is dedicated to 17th and 18th-century art and music.

Behind its remarkable façade of Baroque architecture lie temporary and permanent exhibitions of paintings, tapestries, prints, sculptures and furniture illustrating this period of history. This sumptuous world is completed by an exceptional collection of European scholarly musical instruments, the second largest collection in France, and objects relating to regional folk art.

The palace's rich decorations have been restored and a monumental staircase lined with marble statues will lead you to the sumptuous stately apartments, adorned with frescoes on the theme of mythology.

Its location at the heart of the old town provides an opportunity to discover the charm of Vieux-Nice's winding streets.

The Lérins Islands offer a peaceful getaway, around thirty minutes from the Croisette and its luxurious buildings. This archipelago emerging from azure waters offers an ideal combination of natural, architectural and gastronomic heritage, anchored in an age-old historical legacy. The smallest of the Lérins Islands is Saint-Honorat, founded in the 5th century by a monastic community and still kept by it today. The monks live in a 16-century-old abbey, a magnificent stone building standing right in the middle of the vineyards. The main activity of this Cistercian community is indeed the production of wine on an 8-hectare estate dotted with thousand-year-old olive trees. Around 30,000 bottles are sold each year, made from varieties such as Chardonnay, Syrah or Clairette. You can spend a day or longer in this enchanting place, where the whispers echo the sound of cicadas, making for a most restful environment.

Not far away, the neighbouring island of Sainte-Marguerite is an ideal place for nature-lovers of all kinds. This virtually uninhabited island has some idyllic, sun-drenched coves forming a craggy outline. In addition, its lands are home to a 150-hectare state-owned forest with a wonderful lake of brackish water. Nestled among the trees, this area is home to a myriad of protected migratory birds, a delight for birdwatchers. Stroll around the estate and breathe in the gorgeous scents of eucalyptus and pine.

A short walk away, lucky residents of Cannes make the most of a very limited number of cabins, forming a total of about twenty dwellings. During your visit to Sainte-Marguerite, don't forget to visit Fort Royal, a former prison that once held one of the most famous prisoners in the works of the French writer Alexandre Dumas: the man in the iron mask. Legend has it that he was the secret twin of Louis XIV: this story is kept alive by the fort's owners, who have opened this legendary cell to visitors.

One of France's most beautiful harbour towns, overlooking crystalline waters framed by Provençal greenery, Villefranche-sur-Mer is located not far from Nice. Its deep water means all kinds of boats can drop anchor there and their owners can make the most of the balmy climate. Treat yourself to a delightful day out exploring the old town's winding streets, where the orange-tinted façades are reminiscent of the ever-present sun that shines on Villefranchois territory. The warm colours of the houses contrast with the pale shades of the louvred shutters, which are often half-closed, allowing a glimpse of the inhabitants' peaceful lives. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the maze of arcades and steps: you will probably end up on Rue Obscure, an underground street built in the 13th century for soldiers to pass through more easily. The place was also used for storing wine and protecting livestock.

Continue your tour at the Church of St. Michael, with a façade in a sublime colour palette of white, pink and pale yellow. Its colours and Baroque architecture from the 18th century echo the opulent religious buildings of Italy. The inside of the monument, in amber shades, contains one of the oldest organs in Alpes-Maritimes, dating from 1790. You can also admire a life-size, recumbent statue of Christ, carved from fig tree wood.

Another place to discover is the Chapel of St. Peter near the fishing harbour, which was decorated by Jean Cocteau in 1957.

History buffs will have a field day exploring the citadel founded by the Duke of Savoy in 1554 for the purpose of guarding the harbour. Remarkably well preserved, it offers a reminder of the medieval glory of this ancient town. The citadel has three museums within it: the Volti Museum dedicated to the art of sculpture, where you can discover a hundred or so bronze, terracotta and copper female statues revealing their voluptuous curves in contrast with the rough stone; the Goetz-Boumeester collection including famous paintings, notably by Miró and Picasso, with a total of a hundred or so works ranging from figurative to abstract art; and the Roux collection of nearly 300 historical polychrome ceramic figurines illustrating daily life from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.

It you have time, get away from it all on the Cap Ferrat peninsula, which you can see from the harbour. It has some of the most beautiful palaces on the French Riviera, like the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a magnificent Italian-style monument.

The Villa Kerylos, an original reconstruction of an Ancient Greek stately home, was built at the turn of the 20th century on the rocky headland in the Bay of Les Fourmis, in Beaulieu-sur-Mer.

Its owner, Théodore Reinach, a statesman and passionate Hellenist, wanted to make a dream come true: to create a holiday home in the style of the villas on the island of Delos. After meeting the architect Emmanuel Pontremoli, he was able to complete his project with brilliant results. Their collaboration led to a work of equal intellectual and artistic value, combining the splendour of Ancient Greece and the modern comfort of a Belle Époque villa.

This exceptional achievement, a true tribute to Greek civilisation, invites visitors to admire the sumptuous decorations in precious materials such as marble, exotic wood, bronze and ivory. Furniture, crockery and fabrics adorn the ground floor state rooms, and the upstairs bedrooms have their own private bathrooms. In the centre of the villa, the large inner courtyard is decorated with 12 Carrara marble columns. Frescoes and mosaics celebrate the legends of the gods of Ancient Greece.

The Mediterranean on its doorstep and the majestic Èze cliffs as a backdrop further enhance this surprising and delightful architectural gem. Its name adds to its charm: Kerylos means "Halcyon", a mythological kingfisher-like bird that was thought to be a good omen.

One of the most beautiful palaces on the French Riviera, the "villa Île de France", was built at the turn of the 20th century by Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild, in the heights of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, on the shores of the Mediterranean. This sublime home inspired by the Italian Renaissance, adorned with superb gardens, became a museum in 1938 following the death of the Baroness, who had bequeathed her property to the Institut de France.

The drawing rooms and apartments in different styles are open to visitors and contain porcelain, tapestries and unique paintings. These sumptuous interiors are matched by equally stunning exteriors. The French formal garden is the highlight of the nine landscaped areas. Shaped like a boat, it is a real ode to romance with its fountains and ponds, musical water features, century-old olive trees, trees of various species and Temple of Love.

A stroll around this magical place is an invitation on a journey. Marvel at the fascinating atmosphere in each area, among the avenue of century-old cypresses and the horseshoe staircase in the Florentine garden, the fragrant plants and century-old rosebush of the Spanish garden, the cleverly arranged and unusual works of art in the lapidary garden, the Zen-like, meditative atmosphere of the Japanese garden, the lush vegetation of the exotic garden, the grace of the rose garden and its little hexagonal temple, and the scents of rosemary and lavender in the Provençal garden. The whole thing is a treat for the senses!

In the heart of these exceptional gardens spread over 4 hectares, children will be invited to explore the site in a fun way with Hugo and Léa, the two mascots in the game booklet, while an audioguide will introduce adults to the history of the site, from the Baroness and the Riviera to the Belle Époque.

As the birthplace of perfume-making, the town of Grasse, in the heights of Alpes-Maritimes, was honour bound to offer visitors a museum devoted to the subject. This has been accomplished with the International Perfume Museum - MIP, an unmissable attraction in the Nice back country.

Four places in Grasse's history are devoted to this unique museum: the Pontevès mansion, which houses part of the permanent collections; the old Hugues Aîné perfumery; the old Pélissier building, which houses the temporary exhibitions; and the orange tree garden, created in 1779 then remodelled in 1976.

At the MIP, you will learn all about the history of perfume, that timeless instrument of seduction: through a collection of over 50,000 objects, of which 2,500 are exhibited to the public, all aspects of perfume-making are explored, from raw materials to industry, design, marketing, etc., not forgetting the various traditions found all over the world.

Alongside the history of perfume, whose first traces can be seen in the form of perfume and cosmetic vases dating back to 7,000 B.C., and the exhibition of unusual objects from various eras, bottles, a perfume organ, eyeshadow boxes, perfume burners, etc., the museum also provides a showcase for French excellence in perfume-making. French perfume history unfolds here, from the first big names, like Coty, Houbigant, Guerlain and Chanel, to the gradual appearance of synthetic products.

There is one unique piece that visitors must be sure not to miss: Queen Marie-Antoinette's travel kit.

The museum hosts many activities including themed tours and olfactory and tasting workshops.

Lodged between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, the town of Grasse has been established as the world's perfume capital for the last three centuries. The surrounding hills leading down to the sea are draped in fields of flowers offering the most delicate fragrances. In the month of May, one of the gems of Grasse comes into bloom: the cabbage rose, a flower originating in the Caucasus. At harvest time, this rose yields an explosion of aromas that are found in many perfumes and floral waters. The local environment, influenced by its proximity to the mountains and iodic soils, gives this sophisticated flower some unique tones. Violet and jasmine are also grown there and are at home in the town's great perfumeries. To learn their story, head to the International Perfume Museum. The museum explains how in the 17th century, in order to mask the bad smells emanating from the leather they used, local glove-makers decided to add more delicate scents to it. Other anecdotes and technical developments are presented in this sanctuary of perfume: posters, photographs and machines are on display, including the first technologies of the industrial era.

You cannot visit Grasse without exploring one of its temples of perfume, the Fragonard perfumery. Once again, visitors are led behind the scenes to see how this precious nectar is produced, in particular by looking at the stills, coils, essenciers and other key tools used in its preparation. On a guided tour of the museum, you learn about the various flowers cultivated in the Grasse area and the differences between products such as eau de toilette, eau de Cologne, perfume, eau de parfum...

As well as this gem, the rest of the town of Grasse is also worth a look. Small, narrow roads will lead you to the historic centre. Take a stroll among the colourful façades and shady side streets. You might end up on Place du 24 Août, a square offering a magnificent view of the Mediterranean. Be sure to take a look inside the Cathedral of Our Lady of Le Puy (Notre-Dame-du-Puy), in the Romanesque-Provençal style. This edifice, built in the 13th century, has superb architecture, starting with its double-flight staircase and imposing walnut door. Admire the Baroque chapel and the sumptuous rib vaults decorated in gold, contrasting with the sky-blue tones of the ceiling.

Before leaving the town, pay a visit to the many artisans' boutiques for a souvenir of your stay. The hardest part is choosing a fragrance!

Towering majestically over the Mediterranean and the principality of Monaco, the Tropaeum Alpium (also known as the Trophy of Augustus) was erected in La Turbie in the year 6 BC. It was dedicated to Octavian, Caesar's nephew, who would later become the Emperor Augustus, and its purpose was to celebrate the power of the Roman Empire, following the subjugation of the tribes populating the Alps.

Set in exceptional surroundings, the site comprises the ruins of the imposing Trophy, the museum dedicated to it, and a superb park. From the panoramic terrace, you can enjoy an exceptional view of the French Riviera, whose splendours stretch from the Gulf of Saint-Tropez to the Italian coast! New exhibition technology provides a fun, interactive and educational visitor experience for all ages.

This is a unique monument, in terms of size and historical importance, and is part of Alpes-Maritimes' remarkable heritage. It is the first stop on the "Via Julia Augusta", a tourist itinerary of 9 French and Italian sites.

To the far south of the Alps, in Alpes-Maritimes, the Moyen Pays (meaning "Middle Country") is a place of magnificent valleys, gorges and peaks, with the ochre roofs of villages and hamlets emerging from amongst them.

In this agricultural region, the forest reigns supreme and spreads onto the restanques (cultivated terraces), between limestone plateaus, streams and waterfalls tumbling down the gorges. These vast forest zones also exude delightful Mediterranean scents: thyme, lavender, broom and other vegetal treasures make the paths smell gorgeous for lucky walkers. Sometimes, snow suddenly falls on this immense palette of colours and envelops the jagged peaks in an immaculate white coat. Yet the mild Mediterranean climate soon reasserts itself, so you can go walking in this region in all twelve months of the year.

From the big towns downhill like Cannes, Nice and Menton, you can head skywards along the trails winding their way between the dizzying gorges. In the Moyen Pays, all kinds of valleys form a varied relief, from the Siagne Valley in the west of Alpes-Maritimes to the Roya Valley in the east, through Var, Estéron, Vésubie or Paillon.

Among all these treasures, the Gorges du Loup are a local star attraction. This Natura 2000 site features lush waterfalls that soothe ramblers with their peaceful song and wash over the rugged rock draped in greenery. Not far from there, the medieval village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup, perched at 400 metres in altitude, boasts a thousand years of heritage whose traces can still be seen amid its winding, steep streets lined with cute, flower-adorned houses.

Above the Paillon Valley stands the small village of Lucéram in the heart of the mountains, surrounded by remarkably well-preserved forests. This pearl of the Nice hinterland has wonderful narrow streets, intertwined like a maze beneath the pretty balconies. As well as the homes built in the Middle Ages, the fortified gates of the village are also a precious reminder of that time. A few kilometres from the coast, the Moyen Pays is a source of inspiration for its residents and for the curious explorers who come to admire its treasures.

Perched above the Mediterranean Sea, Èze is thought to be one of the most beautiful villages in Alpes-Maritimes. You access the old village at an altitude of 400 metres through an imposing fortified gate dating from the 14th century. The winding, interweaving streets form a real eyrie, where the old stone resplendent with multicoloured flowers seems to want to tell us its secrets. Typically for an old medieval village, you walk under the houses' archways and across uneven terrain, which only adds to the charm of this ancient little town. In the former barns and sheepfolds, you will now find art and craft workshops that reveal the rich local heritage to visitors. Go for a wander through the streets, past pale louvred shutters, old amphorae used as plant pots, and winding flights of steps!

In the heights of the medieval town is a natural site unequalled in the region: the exotic garden, clinging to the castle ruins. Cacti, succulents and other tropical plants from all over the world grow on the craggy terrain of this town overhanging the sea. Downhill, the Provençal roofs overlook the Mediterranean.

In order to reach the Lower Corniche and enjoy the beach, you can take the Nietzche Path, named after the famous philosopher who stayed in the region frequently: a charming hike leading to the very heart of the Provençal greenery, between land and sea.

Clinging to the mountainside, the Principality of Monaco and its famous rock enjoy a reputation that goes far beyond the country's borders. Lodged between Italy to the east and France to the west and north, Monaco covers a mere 2 km². With its 37,000 inhabitants, the principality has one of the highest population densities in the world! This is not surprising given its exceptional geographical situation, with the Mediterranean on its doorstep, and its luxurious dwellings surrounded by steep cliffs.

Among these major buildings is the Hermitage Hotel with its Belle Époque architecture. We recommend visiting its sumptuous lobby, where the marble floor reflects the immaculate columns. Look up and admire its incredible glass roof flooding the place with light. You should also visit one of Monaco's most famous monuments, the Casino de Paris. Its Belle Époque style blends with a futuristic décor enhanced by arches that let in changing light as the day goes on. Gamblers can play to their hearts' content with over 550 machines for visitors!

Continue your Monaco getaway in the Fontvieille district, entirely built on land reclaimed from the sea behind the rock. The harbour is a nice place for a stroll, where the sailboats bob up and down on the waves opposite office blocks resembling a New York business district. Escape from the urban hustle and bustle in Fontvieille's zoological garden. It is home to around 250 animals of fifty or so different species. You can walk along the tree-lined paths while admiring reptiles, primates, hippos, tortoises and other exotic animals living just a stone's throw from the town centre!

Continue your tour of the vegetal kingdom in the Exotic Garden of Monaco. Clinging to the cliffside, this floral temple overlooks the entire principality and enjoys an exceptional microclimate. Visitors can admire a vast collection of tropical plants. You can wander freely among the arches and footbridges in the middle of this jungle brimming with colours and fragrant with exotic scents, while enjoying a panoramic view of the Mediterranean. Continue your visit to the princes' palace, standing firm on the imposing Grimaldi Rock. Although the main apartments are only open for part of the year, they are well worth a visit for their remarkable architecture. Stroll along the sumptuous gallery of Italian-style arcades adorned with murals and admire the details of the main courtyard and its vast Carrara marble staircase. Opposite the palace, the Carabiniers stand guard, dressed in their traditional white costume during the summer season and black in winter.

Lastly, explore the streets of Monaco with its jewellery and high fashion boutiques, and splendid luxury hotels. A detour via the Monte Carlo Opera House is a must in order to admire the masterpiece by Charles Garnier, built in the 1870s. Notice the intricate details of the carvings, vaults and columns, which have nothing to envy their Parisian counterpart. No doubt about it, Monaco has hidden treasures on every street corner...

With the Mediterranean Sea on one side and Provence on the other, the Esterel is a volcanic mountain range with plenty of charm. This enchanting natural site with a jagged skyline is clad in a magnificent palette of colours. First of all, there is the characteristic red colour that comes from a volcanic rock dating back several hundred million years: red porphyry. Then you have the blue of the sea, which turns turquoise when the sun shines with all its might. Not forgetting the green of the maquis shrubland and stone pines that complete this picture postcard landscape.

By taking the Corniche d'Or road which connects Saint-Raphaël in Var to Théoule-sur-Mer in Alpes-Maritimes, a series of superb viewpoints await you at almost every bend! Step out of your car and admire the cliffs, islets, red rocks emerging from the water and small coves shaded by stone pines.

When it comes to outings, the Esterel Massif caters equally well to hikers, mountain bikers and horse-riders. Numerous circuits criss-cross the site and lead to various unmissable places such as the Saint-Barthélemy Rock, the Cap du Dramont, the peak of Cap Roux, Mount Vinaigre, the highest point in the mountain range at 618 metres in altitude, and the Blavet Gorges. Don't miss the beautiful walk to the Pic de l'Ours, a mountain peak offering stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline. And once you reach the top, the panoramic view over the region will leave you speechless! Climbing enthusiasts will also have a great time on the site's various rock faces.

At the heart of Pays de Fayence in Var, Lake Saint-Cassien is particularly sought after in the summertime. Surrounded by lush vegetation including pines, scrub, cork oaks and white oaks, it offers a relaxing and refreshing setting.

Water sports are among the main activities at the lake. Pedal boats, swimming, rowing or windsurfing: there's something for every taste and all the family. If you're a keen angler, you'll be interested to know the lake is teeming with carp. So don't forget your fishing rods!

To find out all about activities at Lake Saint-Cassien and learn more about Pays de Fayence and its hilltop villages, head to the Maison du Lac visitor centre, which can provide a wealth of information.

Inaugurated in 1910 by Prince Albert I of Monaco, the Oceanographic Museum is an exceptional place dedicated to the Mediterranean and tropical marine world. More than 6,000 specimens are displayed in their natural environment, in a hundred pools. At this unmissable attraction, a veritable temple of the sea, visitors are not only invited to discover the amazing species of the Mediterranean and the varied fauna of the coral reef, but can also see an impressive shark lagoon.

This journey through the marine world is accompanied by activities that will leave children and adults with many wonderful memories, such as the sound and light show in the Whale Room, the tactile pool where you can feel the spines of a sea urchin or touch a starfish, or the shark-stroking pool for a really memorable experience. The spectacular ImmerSEAve 360 ° attraction lets you experience the most sensational of diving trips, with no mask or snorkel needed!

Don't miss the cabinet of curiosities of the marine world, where the display cases and old bookshelves contain scale models, diving suits, skeletons and fossils. Among the stars of this superb area are Klingert's diving suit (1797) and a stuffed polar bear from the west coast of Greenland.

Nestling between Menton and Monaco, the municipality of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is one of the Riviera's gems. Sheltered from the wind by the imposing Mount Agel, it enjoys a particularly mild climate and its soil is incredibly fertile. Evidence of this can be seen in Cap Martin Park, divided into several gardens. Some are French formal gardens while others are wilder, and they are remarkable either for their symmetrical lines or on the contrary for their unruly vegetation. Go for a walk in the olive grove, inhaling its delightful scents, and admire the statues dotted about this leafy place.

Then treat yourself to a tour of the old medieval village, perched on high ground and overlooked by the keep of an ancient 10th-century castle. You can stroll around its sloping streets, small squares, fortified doors and vaulted passageways. From Place du Capitaine Vincent, you can admire the view of the Mediterranean and Monaco City below. Opposite, you can glimpse the splendid residences hiding behind century-old trees on private estates. Bear in mind that you can take a tour of Cap Martin by following the Le Corbusier walk, named after the famous architect who owned a cabin by the sea. It will take you along the jagged coastlines plunging into crystalline waters, and past some lovely, secluded beaches and gardens filled with flowers, particularly mimosas in February. Keep your eyes peeled: a splendid 19th-century villa is tucked away in the surrounding area!

Rightly known as the Pearl of France, the town of Menton stands on the tip of the French Riviera, not far from the Italian border. This sun-kissed place enjoys an exceptionally mild climate, making its land uniquely fertile. A garden town, Menton is covered with magnificent Mediterranean plant life thriving all over its territory. All kinds of virtually tropical species flourish in the town, especially lemon, the ultimate symbol of Menton. This citrus fruit is celebrated each year in Menton between February and March, at a festival in its honour: gastronomic chefs give it pride of place in their dishes while all kinds of sculptures made from lemons adorn the town!

To discover Menton, nothing beats an urban stroll in the Riviera sunshine and a trip to the town's many gardens, listed as historic monuments or remarkable gardens. Treat yourself to a plant-themed walk in the Maria Serena villa and its lush green spaces. This impressive building from the late 19th century stands proud amid the palm trees, sago palms and other tropical plants that have earned the garden its nickname of "little Africa". It's a pleasant place to linger as you enjoy the waltz of colours and scents near the adjoining neo-classical villa. It was built to plans by the architect Charles Garnier, designer of the Paris Opera House. Admire its magnificent, immaculate columns and its spiral staircase, designed by the illustrious Gustave Eiffel!

Continue this flower-themed outing all the way to the Fontana Rosa Valencian garden. You will be surrounded by benches and pergolas, crystal-clear pools, columns and ceramic-tiled fountains: the setting indeed echoes the magnificent Andalucian patios of Valencia.

Continue your tour along the colourful streets, where the façades are painted in shades of pink, pale yellow, cream... Your steps will naturally lead you to the old town: its incredible market under the arches, its ochre façades with pale louvred shutters and windows draped with cloth, its bell towers with glazed tiles, its maze of stairs and the winding alleys cascading down to the sea are all part of old Menton's historic charm.

Situated at the foot of the Esterel Massif, Saint-Raphaël attracts visitors mainly for its sandy beaches and water sports opportunities. Yet this seaside resort in Var contains several historical treasures, like the remains of its 12th-century ramparts and its religious buildings. In the old town, make your way along the cobbled streets to the Romanesque Church of San Rafeu, where the watchtower offers a beautiful view of the town and the Esterel Massif. The Museum of Prehistory and Underwater Archaeology and its remarkable permanent collections are now housed in the former presbytery of the church. The Basilica of Our Lady of Victory in the old port district dates back to the 19th century and is distinguished by its Romano-Byzantine style.

Another attraction of Saint-Raphaël's old town is its flower and vegetable market, whose scents are equalled only by the explosion of colours. After strolling around the old port and the seafront, head to the Bonaparte garden for a pleasant walk in the shade of the palm trees. The view of the old port and the bay from there is worth the trip in itself!

Saint-Raphaël is also a starting point for the Corniche d'Or, the winding seaside road that links it with Cannes. Along its 40 kilometres, a series of splendid landscapes justifies frequent photo stops to immortalise the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea.