Why winter is the best time to visit the fabled French coastline
While the Côte d’Azur now draws most visitors in the summer, did you know it was originally a winter retreat? For decades, moneyed Britons and Europeans took refuge along France’s Mediterranean coast because of its mild climate, stunning views, and endless adventures. If you want to unlock the true experience of the great old Riviera, visit in the cold months. Keep reading to learn what to do and how to do it.
Fresh powder in the morning, seaside dinner in the evening
Winter on the French Riviera offers a rare dual landscape. In Nice, start your day with a steaming cup of coffee and French omelet overlooking the shimmering sea before taking the ninety-minute drive or direct bus connection to the Alps to ski at Isola 2000 or Auron. After you’ve taken in the fresh mountain air, tinged with just a hint of sea brine, descend back to Nice to take your dinner at a seaside café, where you can feast on fresh mussels, langoustines, and oysters. A day like this is a true indulgence, an exclusive ticket to authentic, exciting, and original Europe.
Shining stars on a black-blue sky
In the crisp winter air, the Promenade des Anglais is a peaceful open space. In the darker months, the sea goes a deeper blue, the cliffs seem to rise more sharply against the black sky. Most impressive of all are the gleaming stars. For the best view, head up to the Nice Observatory, designed by Gustave Eiffel—yes, that Eiffel—to see constellations, planets and stars that are hardly visible in the summer blaze.
Authentic culture on full display
In winter, the Côte d’Azur celebrates its heritage and gives you the chance to get priority access to an authentic, local experience. A great example is Nice’s Carnaval. Held since the year 1294, it brings thousands of people to the streets to watch as giant floats drive by. The climax of the event is the “burning of the King,” which marks the end of festivities. Other great winter festivals include Menton’s Fête du Citron, which transforms the town with huge lemon sculptures, or Villefranche-sur-Mer’s Combat Naval Fleuri where fishermen toss flowers onto the water.
The secret side to the Côte d’Azur
For most of its history, the Côte d’Azur was a closely guarded secret, known only by Europe’s wealthy or aristocratic. The Côte d’Azur in winter is still a secret, ready for you to discover. It’s the clear, quiet, and deeply beautiful upgrade to your journey—just as it was meant to be.
