South of France Road Trip
Explore the French Riviera in comfort
Discover the luxury of the French Riviera on this four-day road trip. Whether you’re keen to soak up the sun and enjoy some of the best beaches along the Côte d’Azur or enjoy the finest Mediterranean culture and cuisine, our South of France road trip offers something for everyone. Taking in the best of the area, you’ll set off in Monaco before moving on to Nice and Cannes before ending your tour in iconic Saint-Tropez.
Route
Monaco ➤ Nice ➤ Cannes ➤ Saint-Tropez
Distance
98 miles / 2:15 hours
Travel duration
4-5 days
Highlights
Casino Monte-Carlo, Promenade de Anglais, Le Suquet, Plage de Pampelonne
Best time to travel
June to August
Insider tip: Travel in september to escape the crowds and still enjoy the good weather and amazing beaches.
Tolls
Highway tolls are calculated based on the distance you have travelled and are payable at toll stations. Tunnels and bridges also require a fee.
Day 1 - Monaco
Start your South of France road trip in the glitz and glamour of Monaco. Famous for its impressive casinos, grand palaces and boutique designer shops, Monaco is the second smallest independent state in the world and a well-known playground of the rich and famous. By day, meander the historic cobblestone streets of Old Town, explore horticultural delights in the many public gardens or relax at the beach. When night falls, sample exceptional local cuisine and sip on a cocktail or two as you watch the sunset from one of many rooftop bars.
Sights along the way
- Casino Monte-Carlo: No trip to Monaco is complete without a visit to a casino. The Casino Monte-Carlo offers daily tours for visitors who want to peek inside without splashing their cash.
- Pailais Princier: The official residence of the Prince of Monaco, originally built in 1215, it is known as one of the most luxurious residences in the world. Observe the opulence for yourself on a guided tour.
- Oceanographic museum: Perched on a cliff, this museum showcases eclectic marine life as well as offering stunning views across the bay.
- Monaco’s old town (Monaco Ville): With charming narrow streets and historical buildings, experience the beauty of Monaco’s Old Town.
- Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix: The Monaco Grand Prix takes place every year, usually around the end of May or the beginning of June. So, check the dates before you book your trip if it’s on your bucket list.
Beaches
- Larvotto Beach
- Méridien Beach
- Solarium Beach
Food and drinks
Local cuisine
- Les Perles de Monte-Carlo
- Le Petit Bar
- Le Train Bleu
Rooftop bars
- Équivoque
- Ceto Bar
- Blue Gin
Parking
- Parking Fontvieille
- Parking for Campers Les Ecoles
- Parking des Abeilles
Day 2 - Nice
The next stop on your South of France trip is the bustling port city of Nice. Known for its vibrant Old Town, bustling markets and scenic promenade stretching along the coast, it’s the perfect stop to relax and savour all the luxury of the Mediterranean. There is plenty for culture lovers too, with art galleries and museums to explore and exquisite cuisine to sample. For those looking for a lively getaway, we recommend visiting when one of the city’s many festivals is in full swing.
Sights along the way
- Old town (Vieux Nice): Wander through narrow streets lined with colourful buildings and unique shops.
- Port of Nice: Home to luxurious yachts and a lively waterfront, the port is not to be missed.
- Castle Hill (Colline du Château): Offers panoramic 360º views over Nice and the Mediterranean.
- Promenade Des Anglais: Brits have long been flocking to Nice with English aristocrats paying for this promenade in 1822. Now you can walk in their footsteps along this glorious promenade.
Beaches
- Marinières Beach
- Bambou Plage
- City Beach of Nice
- Plage des Fourmis
Food and drinks
Local cuisine
- Peixes
- La Storia
- Le Plongeoir
- Fenocchio
Rooftop bars
- Rooftop 17
- Plaza Terrace
- Moon Bar
Parking
- Nicetoile
- Easy parking Gare de Nice
- Q-park Nice – Gare du Sud
Day 3 - Cannes
No trip to the French Riviera would be complete without visiting Cannes. Synonymous with glamour, it’s perhaps best known for hosting the annual International Film Festival. Beyond the glamour of the red carpet, there is so much to explore, from historic buildings to shopping on the Boulevard de la Croisette or simply relaxing on one of the area’s many beautiful beaches. At night, the city comes to life with luxury wine bars, signature cocktail bars, casinos, nightclubs, and so much more.
Sights along the way
- Promenade de la Croisette: This long seaside promenade is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll while soaking up the atmosphere of the city and exploring quaint shops and cafes along the way.
- The Lerins Islands: Sail away from the bustle of the city and hop on a boat to explore the flora and fauna of the Lerins Islands.
- Le Suquet: Classed as an historical monument, the old quarter offers picturesque views over the city.
- Palais des Festivals et des Congrès: Have your very own red-carpet moment and walk in the steps of some of the greatest names in cinema along the ‘Path of the Stars’.
Beaches
- Croisette Beach Cannes
- Plage du Midi
- Plage des Fourmis
- Bijou Beach
Food and drinks
Local cuisine
- Marché Forville
- Aux bons enfants
- L’Affable
Rooftop bars
- Marea
- Belle Plage Rooftop
- Le Roof
Parking
- Parking Pantiero
Tag 4 - Saint-Tropez
After exploring Cannes, make the short hour-and-a-half drive to one of the most iconic spots along the Côte d’Azur, Saint Tropez. Once a humble fishing village, it is now a hotspot for celebrities and boasts some of the best beaches on the Riviera. Explore the lively harbour and admire the luxury yachts lined up along the quays. With a seamless mix of timeless charm and modern luxury, it offers plenty to delight all visitors.
Sights along the way
- Harbour: Lust over the luxury yachts, indulge in a spot of people watching or sample the area’s many bars and restaurants, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in this bustling harbour.
- Visit a beach club: To truly experience the glamour of Saint Tropez, visiting a beach club is a must. With resident DJs, luxury food and drinks and comfortable beach cabanas it’s the epitome of indulgence.
- National Maritime Museum & Citadel: The Citadel was built in the 17th Century to keep watch for potential attackers. Now it offers fantastic views across the city and is home to a maritime museum offering insights into over 500 years of history.
- Forville Market: Just a stone’s throw from the old port, this historic market is known for its quality local products, so is worth a stop if you’re planning to cook up a storm in your camper.
- Port Grimaud: Often called the “Venice of Provence,” this unique lakeside town is just a short drive away so well worth a visit if you get the chance.
Beaches
- Plage de Pampelonne
- Plage Fontanette
- Plage La Ponche
Food and drinks
Local cuisine
- Le Petit Pointu
- Pearl Beach
- Le Viviers du Pilon
Rooftop bars
- Les Toits
Parking
- Parking du Nouveau Port
- Parc des Lices
Useful tips for your road trip in South of France
Make sure you’re ready for glorious sunshine if you’re planning a summer trip to the Côte d’Azur and pack all your summer essentials:
- Light summer clothing
- Swimwear and towels
- Sunglasses
- Sun and insect repellent
- Comfortable shoes for sightseeing
- Hat or headwear
- Small backpack for excursions
- Passport or ID
- Portable power bank and charger
Before heading on your South of France road trip, it’s worth making sure you are aware of some basic French traffic rules.
Speed limits
Speed limits can vary depending on the weight of your camper, so make sure you check beforehand.
Up to 3,5 tonnes:
- 130 km/h on highways,
- 110 km/h on expressways
- 80km/h on country roads
- 50km/h in cities
Over 3,5 tonnes:
- 110 km/h on highways
- 100 km/h on expressways
- 80 km/h on other roads
- 50 km/h in cities
Other traffic rules in France:
- A strict alcohol limit of just 0.5% Blood Alcohol Content (reduced to just 0.2% for new drivers who have only held their licence for three years).
- Blind spot warning signs are mandatory for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes.
- Parking zones apply in many areas of France, including along the French Riviera – White Zones are free parking areas, Blue Zones mean you can park if you hold a disc, and Yellow Zones mean no parking.
- Height restrictions apply in various situations, so be mindful of clearance in parking garages and tunnels.
Make sure you’re prepared for your trip along the Côte d’Azur by following these basic camping rules:
- Wild camping is generally prohibited across France, especially in nature reserves, along the coast, and near landmarks.
- Stay at designated campsites and follow rules regarding quiet hours.
- At highway rest stops, limit your stay to 24 hours to avoid fines.
- Never leave valuables in your vehicle to prevent theft.