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Home - Travel Destinations - The Ultimate Antibes Travel Guide: Discover the Magic of the French Riviera
If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
We link to affiliated partners at no extra cost to you.
Planning a holiday to Antibes feels a bit like choosing sunshine in a bottle. This charming French Riviera town has that perfect blend of old‑world beauty, Mediterranean sparkle, and relaxed French living. Whether you’re here for the beaches, the food, the art, or simply to wander those gorgeous cobbled streets, Antibes wraps you in its warm, coastal embrace from the moment you arrive.
Honestly? Antibes suits almost every kind of traveller, but in different ways.
Couples will love the romantic old town, sunset strolls, and dreamy sea views.
Families will appreciate the calm beaches, walkability, and relaxed Riviera vibe.
Solo travellers will enjoy the safe, friendly atmosphere and endless cafés to linger in.
Culture lovers will adore the museums, markets, and art scene.
Beach‑seekers will be in heaven with the mix of sandy beaches and hidden coves.
Antibes is one of those rare places that feels both lively and peaceful — perfect for anyone wanting a beautiful, easygoing holiday with a touch of Riviera charm.
If there’s one thing that makes Antibes instantly unforgettable, it’s the old town—Vieil Antibes. Picture this: a tangle of narrow cobbled streets, pastel‑painted houses with shutters thrown open, tiny art galleries tucked between cafés, and that soft Mediterranean light that makes everything look like a painting. It’s the kind of place where you wander without a plan and somehow stumble into the town’s history with every turn.
And then, of course, the beaches. Antibes has some absolute gems, and if you keep reading, I’ll tell you exactly which ones are worth packing your towel for.
You also can’t miss the marina. Antibes is home to some of the most jaw‑dropping yachts you’ll ever see—seriously, they look like floating mansions. Stroll along the famous Billionaires’ Quay, and you’ll get a front‑row view of how the world’s wealthiest like to holiday.
Art lovers are in for a treat too. The Picasso Museum is one of Antibes’ cultural highlights, filled with works Picasso created during his time living here. Beyond that, the town buzzes with creativity—think charming galleries, exhibitions, and even an annual jazz festival that fills the warm summer nights with music.
And one of my favourite things? Antibes sits right in the heart of the French Riviera. That means you can easily hop over to Cannes, Nice, or the dreamy hilltop village of Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence. It’s the perfect base if you want to explore the coast without constantly packing and unpacking.
Reaching Antibes is wonderfully easy, and you’ve got a few great options depending on where you’re coming from and how you like to travel.
By plane: The closest airport is Nice Côte d’Azur, just about 20 km from Antibes. Once you land, you can hop on a bus, catch a quick train, or simply grab a taxi straight to town. It’s all very straightforward, and the coastal views on the way are a lovely little welcome to the Riviera.
By train: Antibes has its own train station, and it’s well connected to the rest of the coast—Nice, Cannes, Monaco, you name it. If you’re arriving from Paris or another major French city, the TGV will whisk you down to Nice, where you can easily switch to a local train for the short ride into Antibes. It’s smooth, scenic, and honestly one of my favourite ways to arrive.
By bus: If you prefer to keep things simple (and budget‑friendly), regular buses run from Nice and other nearby towns straight into Antibes. It’s an easy, no‑fuss way to get around the Riviera.
By car: Driving to Antibes is a breeze. The town sits right off the A8 motorway, which links all the major Riviera hotspots. If you’re thinking about renting a car, definitely book ahead—summer demand can be wild, and prices tend to climb quickly. But having a car does give you the freedom to explore those little coastal corners at your own pace.
By boat: And for something a bit more scenic, Antibes has its own port where you can hop on a boat to places like Cannes, Monaco, or even St Tropez. It’s such a lovely way to see the coastline—sun on your face, sea breeze, and that classic Riviera sparkle.
The best time to holiday in Antibes depends on your preferences. If you want to enjoy warm weather and swim in the Mediterranean sea, the summer months of June to September are the best time to visit. During this time, the weather is usually hot and sunny, and the beaches are the busiest.
However, if you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, the spring and fall are also great times to visit. During the months of April to May and September to October, the weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy the town and its surroundings without the crowds. The landscapes and gardens around Antibes are also particularly colorful during these months.
Lastly, if you are looking to enjoy the Christmas markets, festive lights, and the mild winter weather, December to February are the best time to visit. During this time, the town is decorated with festive lights, and the Christmas markets are open, which makes it an ideal time for a winter holiday.
So, Antibes offers a great holiday experience all year round, depending on your preferences you can choose the best time to visit.
💡 Travel Tips: Once you arrive in Antibes, you’ll quickly realise how wonderfully walkable it is. The old town, the markets, the marina—they’re all close enough to explore at a relaxed, holiday pace. And if your feet need a break, there are always local buses and taxis to help you hop around with ease.
One of the things I love most about Antibes is how many wonderful experiences don’t cost a cent.
Take a stroll along the Promenade: Start with a gentle walk along the famous seaside promenade. The Mediterranean stretches out in front of you, the light is gorgeous, and it’s the perfect spot for a picnic or simply sitting down to watch the sun melt into the sea. Pure bliss.
Explore Fort Carré: Perched on a hilltop, this 16th‑century fort gives you sweeping views over Antibes and the coastline. It’s a fun little wander, full of history and fresh sea air.
Enjoy the public beaches: Antibes has some lovely free beaches—Plage de la Salis, Plage de la Gravette, and Plage du Ponteil are all easy to reach and perfect for a lazy day in the sun. Bring a towel, dip into the Mediterranean, and enjoy that Riviera sparkle.
Visit the Provençal Market: If you’re in town on a Tuesday or Saturday, don’t miss the Provençal Market. It’s one of those places that feels alive—changing “colours” throughout the day like a chameleon. Early morning flowers, then fresh produce, then cheeses, olives, spices… it’s an absolute feast for the senses.
Wander through Parc Exflora: This peaceful botanical garden is a lovely escape when you want a quiet moment. Mediterranean plants, shady paths, and plenty of space to breathe—it’s a gentle little retreat from the busier parts of town.
Catch a free cultural event: Throughout the year, Antibes hosts free outdoor concerts, theatre performances, and cultural events. If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon one while exploring—such a fun way to soak up the local atmosphere.
Visit the Antibes Marina: Make time for a wander around the Antibes Marina—it’s like stepping into a world of floating luxury. Here you’ll find gleaming yachts of every size, including the jaw‑dropping giants moored along the famous Billionaires’ Quay. It’s one of the best places to soak up that Riviera glamour and enjoy a leisurely stroll by the water.
Wander through the historic old town: No trip to Antibes is complete without getting lost—in the best possible way—in its charming old town. The winding little streets are lined with colourful houses, tiny boutiques, and art galleries that seem to appear around every corner. It’s one of those places where you slow down, follow your curiosity, and let the town’s history and culture reveal themselves as you go.
Food in Antibes is such a joy, and half the fun is simply following your nose. Start with the local seafood—think bouillabaisse, that rich Provençal fish stew, or a warm slice of socca, the chickpea pancake that’s crispy on the edges and soft in the middle. Simple, rustic, and absolutely delicious.
And because you’re on the Riviera, you have to enjoy a glass of local rosé. The vineyards of Côtes de Provence are just around the corner, and their rosé is light, refreshing, and perfect for a sunny afternoon.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Antibes won’t disappoint. Treat yourself to a classic crème brûlée or a beautifully caramelised tarte tatin. They taste even better when you’re lingering over dessert in a cosy French bistro.
One of my favourite spots to eat is right by the Provençal Market I mentioned earlier. As the market winds down, the restaurants around it come alive. The atmosphere is fantastic—bustling, warm, and full of that unmistakable Riviera charm.
🕮 Suggested Read: Travel smarter, not heavier! The 13 Must-Have Travel Essentials for a Seamless Journey.
It’s true—Antibes does have a reputation for being on the pricier side, especially compared to other parts of France. You’re in the heart of the French Riviera, after all, surrounded by luxury resorts, chic boutiques, and some seriously glamorous dining spots.
Accommodation can get expensive in the peak summer months, when hotels and holiday rentals fill up fast. But don’t worry—there are more budget‑friendly options too, including hostels, smaller guesthouses, and even camping sites if you prefer something more outdoorsy.
Food and drinks follow the same pattern. Upscale restaurants can be pricey, but Antibes also has plenty of affordable gems: street‑food stalls, cosy bistros, and of course the local markets where you can pick up fresh produce for a picnic by the sea.
Some attractions—like the Picasso Museum or boat tours around those jaw‑dropping yachts—do come with a higher price tag. But the good news is that Antibes offers so many wonderful free experiences (like the ones I shared earlier) that you can easily balance your budget without feeling like you’re missing out.
With a bit of planning, Antibes can absolutely be enjoyed without breaking the bank. It’s all about choosing the version of the Riviera that suits your style and your wallet.
If you’re dreaming of waking up to the Mediterranean right outside your window, the Royal Antibes is a fantastic choice. It sits right next to the beach, and you can stroll to the old town in just five minutes—ideal if you love being close to both the sea and the heart of Antibes. The service here is excellent, and the whole place has that relaxed‑luxury feel that makes a holiday extra special.
Right across from the sea, Hôtel Josse is a bright, friendly option with a laid‑back Riviera vibe. You can literally cross the road and be on the beach. Rooms are simple, fresh, and many come with balconies where you can sip your morning coffee while watching the waves.
The more time you spend in Antibes, the more it reveals its little treasures — from quiet morning markets to golden‑hour strolls by the sea. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, savour the moment, and soak up the best of the French Riviera at your own pace. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Antibes has a way of staying with you long after you’ve left.
💬 We’d love to hear from you — have you been to Antibes, or is it on your travel wishlist? Share your favourite spots, questions, or memories in the comments below. Let’s swap stories and inspire each other’s next adventure.
Author: Arina JVR – 30+ countries, countless stories.
Be France home!
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