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The sun-blushed shores and pretty-enough-to-paint harbors of Antibes have inspired the likes of Picasso and Monet, and this busy port is an exemplar of French Riviera luxe. Among the top things to do in Antibes are admiring the sleek yachts and colorful fishing boats lining the marina, visiting the buzzing Provençal market, and climbing the ramparts of medieval Fort Carré for magnificent views. Well-situated for exploring, some of the Riviera’s most beautiful beaches fringe the Cap d’Antibes, while the jazz bars and nightlife of Juan-les-Pins lie just across the cape.
Sun-seekers crowd the beaches of Antibes and neighboring Juan les Pins—renowned as being some of the best in the French Riviera—through July and August, when temperatures average a balmy 80⁰F (27⁰C) and the city hosts its famous fireworks festivals. In-the-know travelers opt for a spring or fall visit instead, as it’s when the crowds wane, hotel prices fall, and the weather is ideal for both beach days and coastal hikes.
A million-dollar yacht might be the most glamorous way to discover the French Riviera, but you don’t have to be part of the jet set to get around Antibes. The atmospheric Old Town is easily explored on foot, while taxis and local buses run between Antibes, Juan les Pins, and the many beaches. Renting a car or moped is a popular way to explore further afield, but the winding coastal roads and heavy summer traffic can slow you down.
For breakfast like a local, pick up fresh croissants and pain au chocolats from one of the many bakeries in the Old Town, and then head to Nomads coffee for your morning caffeine dose. For lunch, nothing beats a freshly baked socca (a pancake made with chickpea flour) from the Provençal market, where you can also pick up local delicacies from lavender jam to regional cheeses.
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Originally Antibes was made famous by artists such as Monet, who painted the town in the late 19th century, and in-the-know visitors have been coming for generations. Antibes may fly under the radar compared to Nice and Cannes, but former visitors include Charlie Chaplin, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Pablo Picasso.
...MoreYes, there’s much to love about Antibes. There are the white sand beaches, the perfectly preserved city walls of the old town, and some of the best markets in southern France. Don’t forget the mountain backdrop and the window boxes that brim over with flowers in all seasons. It’s worth it.
...MoreStart with a sunrise stroll along the seafront. After breakfast—a croissant or pain au chocolat, you’re in France after all—hit the galleries. Antibes has inspired legions of artists, from Monet to Picasso, and the Picasso Museum offers a taste. Then, hit the beach, or wander the marina admiring the superyachts.
...MoreThe views and food stand out in Antibes. The terracotta roofs and cobbled streets of Antibes’ old town are a contrast to the Mediterranean right on the doorstep and the Maritime Alps behind. The gastronomic scene is special too, and the markets overflow with locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
...MoreIt depends on what you want. Antibes is classy, like Cannes’ slightly aloof, chic big sister. Both have their charms. Cannes comes alive for the international film festival (go celebrity spotting in May), but Antibes is prettier, with a very well-preserved old town—and it’s more relaxing.
...MoreAntibes is fantastic for a holiday. The climate in the Côte d’Azur is idyllic, with average temperatures in the 70s °F (20s °C) in summer, and winters staying mild and balmy. It’s perfectly positioned for some of the best beaches on the south coast and visitors can access beaches for swimming direct from town.
...More