3 Charming towns in the French Riviera you CANT miss

Escape the Crowds in these 3 Charming Villages along the French Riviera

If it’s your first time in the Riviera, there are no shortage of beautiful towns and villages you can visit. My first month in France, I got lost in all the different cities, especially since they’re all so easy to get to via SNCF!

But if you want to experience some quietude and the authentic mediterranean villages along the sea, then head to these 3 beautiful gems: Éze, Tourrettes-Sur-Loup, and Mougins. Each offer a glimpse into traditional life along the Côte d’Azur, away from the hustle of the larger beach towns. Picture this: You’re spending your days meandering cobbled lanes, sampling fresh local cuisine, supporting local artists, and truly soaking up the slow pace of the French lifestyle.

Éze

Perched 1400 feet high on a rocky terrain lies the medieval village of Eze. With its steep and narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. In this adorable little village, you can find local handmade jewelry boutiques, hidden restaurants, stunning views where the mountains meet water, and the beautiful Jardin d’Éze, where you can get lost in.
*HOT TIP- Visit the restaurant all the way at the top, Le Nid d’Aigle, where you can try the BEST waffles or ‘gaufres’ in the South of France. (this may be a bit biased but I’ve truly never tasted a waffle like this).

You can spend hours wandering the village and popping into little shops, but make sure you, head to Eze’s main attraction – the Jardin Exotique after! Built into the rocky cliffs overlooking the sea, the gardens provide some of the best views on the French Riviera.

Tourrettes-sur-Loup

Just 15 minutes inland from the seaside, or around 40 minutes from Nice, you will find the untouched village of Tourrettes-sur-loup, known as the ‘city of violets.’ This beautiful village high atop the mountains will instantly make you feel like you’re one with the clouds.. Towering limestone cliffs surround this flower-filled village, with medieval houses cascading down the hillside above the Loup River.

The reason for its reputation of ‘violet-hued village’ is because in spring, the streets are covered with gorgeous displays of purple blossoms. Try to come here on a Wednesday or Sunday morning, when the weekly market takes over the village. It’s the perfect place to mingle with locals and pick up fresh flowers, produce, or more local items like socca chickpea pancakes, and other regional treats.

Wanna know something crazy? The ENTIRE town’s economy relies on approximately 40 artisans, who own little shops throughout the village. I had to support local and bought a beautiful handmade bag from one of the shops. (I can’t remember the name and couldn’t seem to find it online, but it’s hard to miss as it’s the only handbag shop in the village!)

The Artisan town is easily walkable within an hour, and I recommend you to:
-Sip coffee at one of the local cafes
-Enjoy magnificent mountain & sea views, and walk on the along the Gorges du Loup path just on outskirts of the village (pictured above), you will be truly mind blown.
-Before you leave, make sure to pick up some of Tourrettes’ famous candied violets to take a little piece of Provence home with you.

Mougins

Another charming medieval village in the Riviera is none other than the beautiful Mougins, which has long been an attraction spot for artists, celebrities, and foodies. (Picasso spent his final 12 years living and working here, inspired by the honey-colored architecture and immense natural beauty!!) Wander through the 16th century historic quarter with its tall stone houses, flower-adorned windowsills, and winding cobblestone lanes.

*HOT TIP- The Christian Dior museum is located here!! Dedicated to the late French fashion designer who also called Mougins home base. The museum has interesting exhibits about Dior’s life and his work, it is definitely something to check out.

Mougins is also known for its food scene, with over 20 restaurants serving mouthwatering French and international cuisine. Make sure to check out ‘Le Bistrot de Mougins’, which offers a cozy atmosphere and fabulous modern French fare. Celebrating an anniversary or another special occasion? Reserve a table at the Michelin-starred ‘L’Amandier’ where the talented chef Denis Fetisson curates edible works of art.

And as with every other post I make here, don’t leave without sampling the coffee, pastries, and macarons that local cafes and pâtisseries are known for!

The Perfect French Riviera Retreat

For those of you wanting to experience authentic Provence and the French Riviera away from the well-known cities and crowds, consider spending a few days exploring these towns above, Eze, Tourrettes-sur-loup, and Mougins. These beautiful hidden villages allow you to really immerse yourself in France’s rich history, culture, and cuisine.

This post is all about the hidden gem towns in the French Riviera.

a bientôt!