Cote d’Azur  (FRANCE/EUROPE)

The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, in southeastern France , offers alpine adventures, rolling vineyards, olive groves and the French Riviera. Many famed and iconic cities and sites populate this region including Nice, Marseille, Monaco, Saint-Tropez and Cannes. It’s home to the annual Cannes Film Festival, which features the best new films from all over the world. Palais des Papes offers a 14th-century papal palace, historic frescoes and astonishing panoramic views.

The iconic seaside Promenade des Anglais in Nice includes beaches, shopping, dining and nightlife. The Musée Matisse, Cezanne’s studio and Musée Picasso all showcase vast collections of masterpieces by their famous namesake artists.

Château d’If offers an exploration of a medieval island fortress that once served as a prison. A more unique attraction is the Greek Villa Kerylos, a full-sized replica of a villa from ancient Greece.

Côte d’Azur effortlessly intertwines the allure of cosmopolitan cities with the allure of pristine beaches. Embrace cultural experiences and tranquil seaside escapes. Here are some suggestions to organize your trip to the French Riviera…

Nice: The jewel of Cote d’Azur

In Nice, the crown jewel of Côte d’Azur, the Promenade des Anglais unfurls like a ribbon of sapphire along the azure waters. The old town beckons with narrow streets, charming cafes, boutiques, and many art galleries. Don’t miss the Cours Saleya’s , the local fruit and flower market.

Cannes: The city of the stars

Visit Cannes, with the iconic Croisette promenade embraced by palm trees, luxury boutiques and luxury hotels. During the Cannes Film Festival, the city transforms into an enchanted stage, where movie stars grace the red carpet. Le Suquet, is the oldest part of the city, where winding alleys lead to the remains of a medieval castle.

Grasse: All about perfume

Grasse is located on a hilltop overlooking Côte d’Azur. It is the perfume capital of the world. You will find narrow streets and squares, adorned with centuries-old buildings. The International Perfume Museum is a treasure trove, narrating the captivating history of prestigious fragrances from illustrious houses like Chanel and Dior. Grasse is calling you to immerse yourself in the art of perfumery.

Saint Tropez: The one and only

No visit of Cote d’Azur is complete if you don’t see Saint-Tropez : a real picture-postcard port where yachts gleam against a pastel-coloured backdrop. There has been an endless  party atmosphere here since the 1960s, stretching out to the beaches of Pampelonne where you can have lunch on the sand while admiring the Mediterranean.

In Côte d’Azur, the  beauty of the Mediterranean, the dazzling charm of its cities, and the allure of its cultural gems create an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. From the vibrant streets of Nice to the elegance of Cannes, the fragrant allure of Grasse, and the famous  Saint-Tropez, Côte d’Azur promises a wonderful journey. Enjoy the sunshine and let the flavors of the Mediterranean transport you to a world of timeless charm. 

And Of Course don’t miss MONACO….

MONACO , is located on the shores of the Riviera, half-way between the city of Nice and the Italian border and it is world’s second-smallest country.

With an area just over 2 km², the Principality of Monaco is one of the wealthiest and most expensive countries in the world. Known for its mild climate and dramatic landscape, Monaco has become throughout the years a hub for culture, luxury, sports, and of course business.

The story of the Principality starts whem fake monks  captured of a rock.

 In 1297, Francesco Grimaldi and his men captured the rock of Monaco pretending to be Franciscan friars. The Grimaldi’s authority is recognized by the Kingdom of Genova in 1314. Except a brief French dominion from 1793 to 1814, the Grimaldi family has ruled the Principality ever since.

Monte-Carlo is a district of Monaco whose total area has been peacefully extended by 20% in reclaiming land from the sea.

The Official Language is French. However, Monegasque, Italian, and English are also widely understood and spoken.

After the 2016 national census, more than 125 nationalities are represented in Monaco amongst which 300 Americans and more than 200 Canadians.

Despite Monaco’s independence and separate foreign policy, its defence is the responsibility of France. However, Monaco does maintain two small military units.

Economic development was spurred in the late XIXth century with a railway to France, and the opening of the first casino, in Monte Carlo.
Since then, the principality’s mild climate, splendid scenery, and gambling facilities have made Monaco world-famous as a tourist, and recreation centre for the rich and famous.

However, in more recent years Monaco has become a major banking center. The state has no income tax, low business taxes, and is well known for being a tax haven.

Interesting facts about Monaco

• Monaco’s tallest building is the Odeon Tower It is 170 m high and it was completed in mid-2014.
• Seven public inclined lifts provide public transport.
• Monaco has two marinas: the largest is Port Hercule, and the newest is Fontvieille.
• ID is checked as the citizens of Monaco are forbidden to enter the Monte Carlo Casino’s gaming rooms.
• James Bond, the fictional British spy, is often associated with the Casino de Monte-Carlo.
• The Monaco Grand Prix has been held each year in the streets of Monaco since 1929.
• The highest point of the Principality is a narrow pathway called Chemin des Révoires on the slopes of Mont Agel, reaching 161 m above sea level. The Place du Palais is situated 62 m above sea level.
• Through land reclamation, the Principality’s area has expanded by 20% or 40 hectares.
• The climate of Monaco is generally made up of warm, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. 
• Sunshine averages 2,583 hours annually, and the number of rainy days does not exceed 62 per year.
• The Principality has four historic districts and ten administrative districts (from 1966). In 2025, the inauguration of a new eleventh district: Le Portier.