The French Riviera is the essence of a vibrant and colorful world, a place where a sense of adventure lingers in every corner even in the heart of winter. When the beaches fall quiet, the old towns breathe easier and the air turns soft and mild, the south of France reveals a more intimate and authentic side of itself.
For this winter edition I have gathered 30 experiences to enjoy during the quieter season. Culinary discoveries, uplifting excursions, moments of scent and sensation and those small precious encounters that stay with you long after they have passed. Here you will find a carefully curated collection of activities on the French Riviera that captures the richness and vitality of the region even in its calmest months.
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Many of the experiences below include links to guided tours and curated adventures. I have chosen only providers with excellent reviews so that your journey on the French Riviera becomes as seamless and unforgettable as possible.
#1 Let the Mediterranean carry you
Experience the French Riviera from the water as you glide along the coastline and take in sweeping views of secret coves, elegant villas and the shimmering blue of the Mediterranean.
#2 Learn to cook French cuisine
Or dive into the delicate art of making macarons. You can do both in the Old Town with
#3 Discover the coast in an unusual way
Whether in a vintage car, the sidecar of a motorcycle or an open three wheeler, the coastal roads offer a sense of freedom you can feel in the wind on your skin. The sea sparkles beside you and every stop reveals a new and breathtaking view.
#4 Explore Nice in many different ways
Get to know the city from a variety of perspectives. Wander through its streets, glide along on an e bike, roll through the promenade on inline skates or discover it effortlessly on a Segway.
#5 Set out on a coastal hike
Follow the dreamy paths that trace the shoreline, such as the Sentier du Littoral around Cap Ferrat or the trails near Antibes. Expect the sound of waves at your side and sweeping panoramic views at every turn.
#6 Learn to play pétanque
Try your hand at the beloved southern French pastime best enjoyed at a lively local bar with a glass of pastis in hand. It is a moment that instantly connects you to the rhythm of life in the region.
#7 Create your own perfume
In a traditional perfumery or a bright airy studio you will learn how scents are brought to life and leave with your own personal fragrance, a souvenir unlike any other from the French Riviera.
#8 Become the star of your own private photo shoot
Capture your French Riviera moments with a professional photographer and enjoy being effortlessly guided into beautiful frames. It is a wonderful way to preserve memories that feel both authentic and cinematic.
#9 Meet the artists who shaped the region
Matisse, Chagall, Renoir and many others lived and created along the French Riviera, drawn to its colours, light and calm. Step into their worlds and experience the places that inspired some of their most iconic works.
#10 Join a food tour
Explore the culinary soul of the region as you wander through vibrant markets, taste freshly prepared dishes in charming bistros and discover hidden delicacy shops you would never have stumbled upon on your own. Each stop tells a story and lets you savour the French Riviera one delicious bite at a time.
#11 Embrace winter magic in the mountains
Only about ninety minutes from Nice you can dive into a true winter paradise from December to March. In Isola 2000 for example you will find ski slopes, snowboarding, snowshoe hikes, dog sled rides and plenty more. Perfect for anyone who feels a gentle longing for real winter atmosphere.
#12 Indulge in local delights at the market
Surrounded by lavender, olives, cheeses and sun ripened fruit you will instantly feel the spirit of the south of France come alive. Take your time to taste, chat and soak in the warmth of daily life.
#13 Watch the sunset with a view of the sea
Find your favourite spot along the coast, enjoy the colours unfolding across the sky and let the day drift away with a glass of rosé. My tip: the small balcony bars near the Castle Hill on the Promenade des Anglais offer narrow terraces with sea views where the evening light show becomes pure magic.
#14 Discover the hinterland on a historic mountain train
The journey itself is part of the adventure. Following a historic railway line you pass through remote valleys and dramatic rock landscapes. Later a scenic hike and one of the most beautiful medieval villages in France await you.
#15 Visit a village festival in the surrounding area
Even in the cooler months many villages around Nice celebrate traditional and wonderfully colourful festivals. Highlights include the Fête de la Châtaigne in Cagnes sur Mer in November, the flower battle held on boats in Villefranche sur Mer in February, the famous Fête du Citron in Menton and many more. You can find more information here.
#16 Explore grand villas and forgotten hotels
In and around Nice a number of luxurious villas often surrounded by beautifully designed gardens offer a glimpse into another era and reveal the style, eccentricities and dreams of their former owners. Among the most famous are Villa Kerylos (tickets available on the official website or here) and the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.
In addition the tourist office in Menton and the heritage centre in Nice (Centre du Patrimoine) offer guided tours through old Belle Epoque hotels although these are usually held in French.
#17 Taste local wines
Savour the rich flavours of the French Riviera. From sun drenched reds to elegant rosés a wine tasting in Nice opens the door to an entirely new world. Learn about regional grape varieties and discover wines that carry the gentle warmth of the Mediterranean in every sip.
#18 Browse for antiques
Wander through southern French flea markets and uncover treasures with patina, character and stories to tell. In Nice a charming flea market takes place every Monday on the Cours Saleya inviting you to browse, linger and marvel right in the heart of the city.
#19 Immerse yourself in lavender
If you love lavender you have come to the perfect place. Countless lavender inspired products are waiting to be discovered. From the classic sachets perfumes and soaps to lavender ice cream (which I absolutely adore!), lavender syrup, lavender chocolate and even lavender beer. Set out on a lavender treasure hunt and you are sure to return with new favourites.
#20 Explore Provence and its vineyards
Between lavender fields and rolling vineyards you will find small estates, olive groves and a sense of pure serenity. Let the landscape work its magic as you discover the rich variety and character of the local terroir.
#21 Share an adventure with friends
Escape rooms, outdoor challenges and city games add a playful twist to your trip and guarantee plenty of laughter. Solve the mystery behind one of the most spectacular bank heists in French history (a true story and one of my favourite Nice anecdotes), hunt for a pirates treasure in Villefranche sur Mer or search for an artefact linked to the legendary Catherine Ségurane in Nice (both experiences can be found here).
#22 Immerse yourself in the Italian way of life
A day trip across the border to San Remo and Dolceacqua brings lively markets, a charming medieval village and breathtaking views. It is an easy escape that feels worlds away yet remains wonderfully close to the French Riviera.
#23 Visit castles and coastal fortresses
Explore the historic walls of Antibes or Roquebrune Cap Martin as you take in sweeping winter views of the Mediterranean shimmering below. History meets sea breeze in some of the most atmospheric corners of the region.
#24 Wander through exotic gardens
Stroll through fragrant dreamscapes such as the Jardin Exotique in Èze or the Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh near Menton where life seems to bloom even in the depths of winter. These gardens feel like small worlds of their own filled with colour, scent and quiet wonder.
#25 Discover one of Europes most spectacular gorges
The Gorges du Verdon with its turquoise water and dramatic cliffs leaves visitors absolutely speechless. Book a guided tour or explore its many sections by rental car. A wealth of hiking trails invites you to venture deeper into this awe inspiring landscape.
#26 Wander through Nices Old Town and focus your camera on a single colour
A creative exercise that sharpens your eye and brings a sense of deep calm. It is a beautiful practice for anyone who loves photography and wants to see the familiar with fresh curiosity.
#27 Feel the pebbles beneath your feet on the beach
Take off your shoes, walk close to the water and listen to the unique sound created when the waves roll over the smooth round stones. This signature melody of the French Riviera can be enjoyed barefoot even in winter with daytime temperatures often between fifteen and twenty degrees.
#28 Taste local specialties during a Segway tour
Combine sightseeing with delicious stops along the way and enjoy the best of both worlds. It is a relaxed and playful way to explore the city while sampling the flavours that define the region.
#29 Take a road trip along the coast
Follow the sun from Nice all the way to Saint Tropez and discover hidden beaches, scenic viewpoints and small villages along the way. Alternatively head toward Italy for a taste of true dolce vita as the landscape shifts and the atmosphere softens.
#30 Sit down at a street café and watch the world drift by
A coffee, a croissant, the gentle murmur of voices, the soft clinking of cups. And there you are sitting in the sunshine completely at ease simply observing both locals and visitors as they go about their day. Who knows where they are headed.
Even in the off season the French Riviera reveals its sunny side. With around three hundred days of sunshine each year walks along the sea or day trips into the hills are almost always possible; gentle activities on the French Riviera that bring joy even in winter. And if a rainy day does appear it is the perfect excuse to explore Nices museums. You will find more ideas for cosy weather days here. But most of the time even in the depths of winter the French Riviera remains wonderfully bright and pleasantly warm.
Enjoy exploring and discovering!
Francesca
- Cover Image: Pixabay / Ales Krivec
- Photo 2: Francesca
- Photo 3: Francesca