There are plenty of things to do in Cannes, but you don't need to stay in the city itself and pay its high prices to get a slice of the glamour, one day in Cannes is possible. 

What is Cannes Known For?

Cannes, located on the French Riviera, is known for glamour and luxury. Think A-List celebrities and ultra-luxury hotels and spas, like the Carlton and Hotel Barrière Le Majestic (why is it that Europe has the best in spas and wellness retreats? A question worth doing a lot of research on, if you know what I mean!)

It’s where the who’s-who of the French and the wealthiest tourists vacation and it’s also home to the Cannes Film Festival. This international film festival is a red carpet event held each May, with movie stars, directors, and other Hollywood stars taking over the town. 

Of course, it’s also known for its gorgeous views, crystal clear blue water, and white sand beach. There’s a reason the rich and famous flock to the town and it’s worth a visit to see why.

The Best Things to Do in Cannes France

If you have the money to spare and want to stay in town you can enjoy all its offerings and still use it as a home base for lots of interesting day trips. But let's start with the things to do in Cannes and then move on to the day trips.

Stroll Along La Croisette

La Croisette is the street that runs along a mile-long stretch of seafront in Cannes and is considered to be one of the most famous and iconic streets in France. It’s where you’ll find the most luxurious hotels, designer boutiques, casinos, and more.

Many of the other items on this list are located along La Croisette, so it’s definitely worth taking a stroll down the entire street. It’s also one of the best spots for people-watching!

This e-Bike tour also features La Croisette.

Get a taste of Cannes luxury at ZPlage

Want to be glamorous and do a little celebrity watching at the same time? You can feel like a Hollywood star, at least for a few hours, by heading to the famed restaurant/bar ZPlage at the Hôtel Martinez.

It may be pricey, but this is a favorite haunt of the rich and famous when they visit Cannes, and lunch or a drink here is an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the luxurious surroundings as you sip on a freshly made cocktail and look out across the sea.

Location: 73 Boulevard de la Croisette

Explore the Port of Cannes

Take a stroll down to the picturesque Vieux Port (Old Port) of Cannes to see a mix of small fishing boats and luxury yachts and explore the nearby streets, which are great for shopping as well as finding somewhere for a drink or bite to eat.

From the port, you can also catch a boat out to the Lerins Islands. These comprise four islands, two of which are uninhabited, located just off the coast of Cannes. One of them, Ile St Marguerite, is where the famous Man in the Iron Mask was held for 11 years. Meanwhile, the only inhabitants of Ile St Honorat are a small group of Cistercian monks, who have called the island home continuously since AD410.

Visitors can explore the monks' stark medieval church and see the ruins of the 11th-century monastery on the sea's edge.

This e-Bike tour also features Vieux Port.

Visit the Cannes Yachting Festival

If you happen to be in Cannes in September, stopping by the Cannes Yachting Festival is a must. It’s yet another festival that attracts international attention, showcasing the best luxury yachts from around the world. Even if you’re not ready to drop millions, you can still wander through the port and visit the yachts on display.

Relax on the Beach

There's no shortage of sandy beaches in Cannes. Unfortunately though for day visitors many of these are private beaches owned by hotels and reserved exclusively for their guests. However, Plage du Gray d'Albion, situated just 200 meters from La Croisette, is one of the exceptions. Yay for having a public beach!

Although also owned by a hotel, this beach is open to the public, but you'll need to pay for a lounger and parasol. Still, there's nothing like chilling out on a beautiful beach in one of the most glamorous cities in the world.

For a more relaxed, family-friendly vibe, you can also relax under the palm trees at Palm Beach, which is a bit farther from La Croisette and is therefore a bit quieter.

Location: 38 Rue des Serbes

Cannes Farmers Markets

There is nothing like a French farmer's market and Cannes has 2: Marché Forville and Marché Gambetta, both closed on Mondays. There you will find the usual suspects of fresh fruits and vegetables along with a plethora of seafood. 

Marché Forville is an indoor market that is nice during the heat of the summer. If you do plan on shopping (and I highly recommend you do) then make sure you check out my French market etiquette tips so you don't look like a dumb tourist 🙂

Locations: Marché Forville: 6 Rue du Marché Forville. Marché Gambetta: 3 Place Gambetta.

You can experience the farmers market in The Flavors of Cannes Food Tour.

Musée de la Castre

The museum is inside a medieval chateau (built by Lérins monks) in the Le Suquet district. Like one of my favorite museums in Phoenix, it has musical instruments, although they have other items as well including 19th-century paintings and a collection of masks from around the world.

Even if you aren't interested in the museum's content, it is totally worth the walk uphill as the views of the city are gorgeous. In the courtyard, there's a tower where you can look out and see a 360-degree view of the surroundings including the Lérins Islands. During the warm summer, it is a great place to get out of the heat!

Location: 6 Rue de la Castre

Notre-Dame D'Espérance

Located next door to the Musée de la Castre, this church built in the 14th and 15th centuries in a Gothic style also offers mega views of the city and port.

Location: 1 Rue de la Castre

La Croix-des-Gardes Nature Park and Forest

Located inside Cannes, this large park has nice walking trails and picnic spots with fantastic views including fabulous panoramic views of Cannes and its nearby bays and islands. The hike to the top to get to those views is pretty rigorous but so worth it! The trails are primarily used for hiking, walking, biking, and nature trips and are accessible year-round and most are kid-friendly!

Location: 166 Boulevard Leader

Movie Magic – Cannes Film Festival

Of course, the first thing you think about when someone mentions Cannes is the film festival. Running from mid to late May, tickets for the festival itself, held at the Palais des Festivals (Palais des Festivals et des Congrès), are pretty hard to come by and usually only reserved for industry insiders. But you can still get your hands on free tickets to screenings for selected individual films, usually after they have already been shown for the first time.

Head to the Cannes Cinephilesticket booth outside the Palais des Festivals to see what's available. Alternatively, celebrity spotting at the Palais is a favorite pass time during the festival season. You can watch the film stars make their way down the red carpet.

Get there early as crowds can build up quickly. Meanwhile, if you're not in town for the festival, a trip to the Palais des Festivals to see where the magic takes place is still worth it, even if just for the good photo op.

Location: 1 Boulevard de la Croisette

Lérins Islands

Easily accessed by boat from Cannes, the Lerins Islands are stunning. Though there are four islands (Saint-Honorat, Sainte-Marguerite, Îlot Saint-Ferréol, and Îlot de la Tradelière) only the two largest are usually the ones visitors travel to. The ferry will take you to Île de Saint-Honorat, famous for the Lerins monastery.

The complex was built in the 5th century and has been occupied by monks since. Part of their livelihood is based on managing the complex and the gardens. After visiting the religious grounds, enjoy the scenery for a well-deserved lunch, either at the local restaurant or with a homemade picnic.

Board another ferry for a short ride towards Île Sainte-Marguerite and learn about the fortress history at the Musée de la Mer, more especially about its famous “guest,” the Man in the Iron Mask. The identity of the jailed man was never released, and many theories were discussed across the centuries to discover his name – without any luck. Alexander Dumas mentioned the character of the Man in his D’Artagnan books in the 19th century.

While on either island, walk around to explore the scenic landscape or go for a refreshing dip into the Mediterranean Sea. The visit to both islands is best done on a full-day visit for a more relaxed pace.

Contributed by Patricia from Ze Wandering Frogs.

Lerin Island Tours & Transportation:

• Discover Cannes, the Lérins Islands and the Estérel by Private Boat
• Boat charter in Cannes Lerins Islands
• Ferry from Cannes to the island Ste Marguerite
• From Mandelieu Round-trip Ferry to Ste Marguerite Island
• Boat excursion – Sunset Cannes

Window Shop at Rue d’Antibes

Cannes is one of the most well-known shopping areas in France, with chic boutiques and luxury brands. One of the most famous areas in Cannes for shopping is Rue d’Antibes, which is actually home to more moderately-priced brands like Zara, as well as the old Cannes Theater. This area is also known for its 19th-century architecture and sculptures, so it’s worth a stroll even if you’re not in the mood to shop until you drop.

Learn About the French Culinary Scene

Cannes, along with much of the French Riviera, is well-known for its culinary scene and there are many famous chefs and high-end restaurants to enjoy. However, if you prefer a more hands-on approach, consider taking a cooking class, like the ones offered by La Serviette Blanche. 

Go Sailing

If you’re up for a little more adventure, you can hire a yacht for a day to go explore more of the Cote d’Azur. Water is often the best way to experience little islands and private beaches – and who doesn’t want to spend a day sailing the French Riviera? If you love being on the water, you can even head out on a multi-day charter.

Get on the Water with these popular tours:

• Cannes Luxury Catamaran Half or Day Cruise with lunch option
• Private Customized French Riviera Tour from Port of Cannes 8H

The Picasso Museum (in Antibes)

Antibes is not a day trip from Cannes, it is only 20 minutes up the road. The Picasso Museum (Place Mariejol,) here was the first to be dedicated solely to Picasso and his works. He spent quite a bit of time here and after a few days in the gorgeous light, you will understand!

More Things to Do in Cannes

• Exclusive Private Guided Tour through the History of Cannes with a Local
• Private Guided 2 Hours Walking Tour of Cannes

Day Trips from Cannes

After you have had your fill of luxury you may want to get out and explore the rest of the Côte d'Azur. Discover the Mediterranean shore and the region beyond with a wide variety of day trips. You might also consider nearby Nice, as it makes for a much more affordable base, as well as being a beautiful and cultured city in its own right. 

Any of the following suggestions will work as either day trips from Cannes or day trips from Nice. I have asked a few francophiles to share their favorites! And let's start with Nice

Nice

Nice is one of the best day trips to take from Cannes. This vibrant city on the French Riviera has a beautiful old town with winding streets and colorful baroque architecture, pretty beaches, and a good combination of cultural attractions and picturesque sites perfect for a day trip out of Cannes.

The list of best things to do in Nice includes a stroll through the Promenade des Anglais, the Old Port, and the Bay of Angels' views from Castle Hill. People more interested in a cultural visit will find fascinating museums like the Matisse Museum and Chagall Museum. In the same neighborhood, the Cimiez Monastery and the surrounding gardens are beautiful to see too.

Finally, a trip to Nice is an excellent opportunity to taste some regional dishes, like the Niçoise salad, socca, ratatouille, or mussels with cream sauce.

Nice sits on the eastern side of the French Riviera, 33km east of Cannes. There are many regional trains and a few TGV trains connecting these two cities, and the journey takes from 29 min to 41 min depending on the type of train. If you have a car, the drive to Nice only takes 30 minutes, even if you will want to stop several times for some pictures.

Distance from Cannes: 1 hour. If you choose to stay the night, I recommend the Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa.

Contributed by Elisa from France Bucket List. [P.S. Elisa was also our local expert on the 19th arrondissement!]

More Things to Do in Nice

• Walking Tour of Old Nice and Castle Hill
• Molinard Perfume Workshop in Nice
• Small-Group Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties & Wine Tasting
• Half Day Afternoon Walking Food Tour with Dinner

Aix en Provence

Aix-en-Provence is one of the prettiest towns in the South of France and it makes a wonderful day trip from Nice. In fact, Aix actually used to be the capital of Provence so it's one of the larger cities to visit. There's more than enough to fill an entire day within Aix and even leave you wanting more.

There are several quaint squares to wander through hosting different markets every day. The best days to visit or Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday when they have the textile market along Cours Mirabeau (one of the main streets). Aix-en-Provence is also very special because it was the artistic muse of 19th-century Post-Impressionist painter, Paul Cézanne.

You're able to tour his home, and studio, and admire his artwork. Plus, you can even visit his favorite subjects for his paintings: Mont Saint Victoire and Bibémus Quarry just outside the city. There's also no shortage of unique museums and cafes in Aix-en-Provence. But, above anything, you have to try the local candy, Calisson. It's made using only three ingredients: ground almonds, candied fruit, and sugar.

The easiest way to get to Aix from Nice is to drive. It takes about an hour and a half. There are quite a few toll roads on the way, although some are avoidable for a bit of a longer route.

Distance from Cannes: 1 hour. If you choose to stay the night, I recommend the Renaissance Aix-en-Provence Hotel.

Contributed by Meghan Emcee from Afternoon Tea Reads.

More Things to Do in Aix en Provence

• Aix-en-Provence Food Tour
• Cézanne Pathway: Wine and Art in Majestic Aix en Provence
• Guided Tour in Aix-en-Provence: Historical Old City
• Gourmet & Cultural Tour Aix En Provence English
• Aix en Provence Guided Tour
• Farmers market tour

Saint Tropez

It's no secret that the French Riviera offers plenty of sunshine, fabulous scenery, and gorgeous beaches – and Saint Tropez does not disappoint. This stunning destination is only an hour away, and it's well worth exploring. From its lively marketplaces to its spectacular architecture, there's so much to experience in Saint Tropez.

Visiting Saint Tropez from Cannes in a day is the perfect way to get away from chaotic city life and enjoy an unbeatable Mediterranean experience. Known for its exclusive nightlife, Saint Tropez hardly needs no introduction – but even if you're not up for a wild night on the town, there are plenty of tranquil beach spots that let you take in the staggering beauty of this gorgeous coastal French town.

Whether you want to explore the beaches, marvel at panoramic views while sipping on delicious regional wines, or simply sit back and take it all in – Saint Tropez has something special in store. So, head out from Cannes and spend some much-needed time sunning yourself by crystal blue waters – you won't regret it!

Distance from Cannes: 1 hour. If you choose to stay the night, I recommend the Château de la Messardière – it has its own private beach!

More Things to Do in Saint Tropez

• St-Tropez Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
• Saint Tropez: Enjoy a tour with an aperitif
• Guided Tour to Discover Saint Tropez

Avignon

Palais des Papes, Europe’s largest gothic palace, is the main reason to visit Avignon. The impressive structure is a remnant of the city’s historic importance. For nearly 70 years during the 1300s, it was the seat of the Catholic pope, chosen over Rome partly due to its more central location within Christendom.

Next to the palace is the cathedral Notre-Dame des Doms and Jardin des Doms. Viewpoints in the gardens are the best places to view the bridge made famous by the French children’s song ‘Sur le point d’Avignon’. The song describes folk dancing on the bridge and tourists often re-enact the song on what is left of the bridge. Today only four arches out of the original 22 remain.

Avignon is surrounded by a 4.3km, 8-meter-high city wall. It is the longest continuous wall in the world after the Great Wall of China. Walkways along the wall can be accessed from the Saint Anne stairs behind the palace, or the Rocher des Doms.

Spring and autumn is the best time to visit. These seasons see fewer crowds than the busy summer months when both Parisian and international travelers descend on the city. Summers can be hot, particularly in July and August. However, visiting in July has the added benefit of coinciding with the annual theatre festival. During the festival traditional theatre, dance, music, and other cultural events can be seen at the town’s historic monuments.

From Cannes, it takes 2 hours 45 minutes by car or c3 hours on the train, but the sight of the enormous Palais des Papes will make the travel time worth it.

Distance from Cannes: 2 hours 45 minutes.  Distance from Nice: 2 hours 40 minutes. If you choose to stay the night, I recommend La Mirande.

Contributed by Kristin from Adventures with Ensuite.

More things to do in Avignon

• Classic old town Avignon from the Romans to the Pope's – half day private tour
• Avignon Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
• Avignon Walking Tour including the Pope's Palace
• Avignon: Private Walking Tour
• Cooking workshop with an exceptional chef in Avignon

Estérel Mountains

The Estérel massif is a mountain range on the French Riviera. It’s 10km wide and 15km long, covering part of the Alpes- Maritime region. The area is famous for its red rocks, which gleam under the sun, (especially at sunrise or sunset), and the huge forests which cover most of the range.

If you have a vehicle or are motorhoming in France, drive along the ‘Corniche de l’Estérel'- the coast road between Cannes and St Raphael. This road perfectly highlights the contrast of the red rocks against the blue of the Mediterranean Sea.

Within the Estérel massif are several towns and villages and some beautiful beaches and coves, along with plenty of watersports and outdoor activities you can choose from. But, to really get away from the bustle of Cannes, the best option for quiet and nature is to hike.

One of the most popular hikes is Cap Roux but be warned this is a long hike (about 4 hours one way) and is more suited for experienced hikers. An easier option is Cap du Dramont near Saint-Raphaël. It takes about 90 minutes each way and gives you beautiful views of Ile d’Or and the Mediterranean.

Even shorter is the hike up Mont Vinaigre which, despite being one of the highest points in the Esterel mountains (641m), is fairly easy, even with small children. The round route takes about 2 hours and offers beautiful views of the whole Esterel massif.

Distance from Cannes: 35 minutes.  Distance from Nice: 50 minutes.

Contributed by Kat from Wandering Bird.

Eze

Located 45 km away from the glamorous Cannes is this humble and picturesque little village called Eze. Perched on a hilltop, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Eze is a hidden gem in the region of the French Riviera. A contrasting lifestyle and architecture, Eze is small and not too crowded like Cannes, Antibes, or Nice.

While exploring Eze Village may not necessarily be a day-long affair, there are quite a few things to do in Eze to keep you occupied all day long. Explore the honey-colored houses in Eze Village as you walk up to Jardin Botanique d’ Eze. As the most visited attraction in Eze, Jardin Botanique d’Eze won’t disappoint you.

The three-tier garden houses exotic alpine plants, succulents, and cactuses, plus postcard-perfect views of the azure Mediterranean coast. Alternatively, hike down the hill to enjoy the waters of Eze Sur Mer beach.

If you prefer sunny days and beach time, summer is the best time to explore Eze. It is also pleasant to explore during spring and autumn.

If you are driving, Cannes to Eze is only 45 km and can be reached in 50 minutes. There are also direct train connections from Cannes to Eze, with hourly service every day. The journey takes 50 minutes. Alternatively, there are coastal buses that run from Cannes to Nice. From Nice to Eze, you can take bus 82 or 112 which takes you to Eze Village.

Distance from Cannes: 1 hour.  Distance from Nice: 30 minutes. If you choose to stay the night, I recommend the Hotel Cap Estel.

Contributed by Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple.

Gordes

Gordes is a village of fabulous beauty in the south of France. It is an excellent destination for a day trip from Cannes, as the drive to the village of Gordes is just 2 hours and 20 minutes. One day is enough to visit this wonderful place in Provence. This village is included in the list of the most beautiful villages in France.

There is no list of attractions because the entire Gordes village is an attraction with its unique architecture and atmosphere. It is located on a cliff in the Vaucluse mountains, which offers postcard views – as beautiful as those often associated with the word “Provence.”

Stroll the narrow cobbled streets of Gordes, gaze at the panoramas, dine in a typical restaurant, and visit local artists' galleries and workshops. As for souvenirs in Gordes, you can buy lavender soap, T-shirts with lavender twigs, lavender sachets, paintings, Provence-style interior items, and handicrafts of local artisans.

There are few shops in the village, but there are enough of them to choose something cute for yourself or as a gift. By the way, the choice there is even more impressive than in the larger cities because there are truly unique items.

The best time to visit Gordes village is from April to October. In July, you can combine a trip to Gordes with a visit to the lavender fields located nearby.

Distance from Cannes: 2 hours and 25 minutes.  Distance from Nice: 2 hours and 40 minutes. If you choose to stay the night, I recommend the Airelles Gordes, La Bastide.

Contributed by Sasha from The Alternative Travel Guide.

Grasse

For a little different day trip from Cannes, head to the perfume capital – Grasse. It’s right there where the perfume-making industry was born and spread its fragrances to the whole world.

Grasse’s position as the cradle of perfume making is also well depicted in the movie Perfume: the Story of a Murderer. The film is set in Grasse, even though most scenes were shot in Spain.

To learn everything there is about perfumes, visit the Fragonard perfumery – the two-story building even features the Museum of Perfumes (Musée International de la Parfumerie – 4€ for entry).

It covers not just the history of making perfumes but also explains in detail the individual techniques of the extraction of essences and the whole production process that happens after the formula has been mixed: unique designs of perfume bottles and packaging, marketing, and celebrity involvement.

In all of the local perfume factories – Fragonard, Molinard, Galimard – you can buy perfumes, handmade soap, and other cosmetic products as fragrant souvenirs to bring back home.

Fragonard and Molinard also both offer tours.

But Grasse won’t disappoint also those who come looking for the charm usually found in small medieval French villages. In Grasse too you can stroll through narrow winding alleys tiled in stone. Galleries abound too since Grasse has always been a popular town among artists.

Grasse is located very close to Cannes – it takes only 30 minutes by train/car. Grasse belongs to popular Nice day trip locations too.

Distance from Cannes: 20 minutes.  Distance from Nice: 40 minutes. If you choose to stay the night, I recommend the Bastide Saint Antoine – Relais & Châteaux.

Contributed by Veronika from Travel Geekery.

Lavender Fields

When one thinks of Summer in Provence, lavenders come straight to mind. Visiting these fields of purple flowers is one of the best day trips you can do from Cannes, especially during the warmer seasons. Featuring vivid colors and distinct aromas, there’s nothing quite like seeing an endless horizon of these stunning lavender fields.

Your senses are sure to be overwhelmed by their captivating sight and aromatic smell. They are a symbolic representation of the South of France as the warmth of the Summer hits the air and the cold breeze completely drifts away.

There are many places to see lavender fields in France, but the most famous ones near Cannes can be found in Plateau de Valensole and Plateau de Calern. Among the two plateaus, Plateau de Calern (GR51) is a much closer drive at approximately 1 hour. It is just off the village of Grasse, the perfume capital of the world.

The lavender fields in Calern are wilder than the flowers you can find in the world-famous Plateau de Valensole. It is also less visited by those who prefer a more offbeat destination.

On the other hand, from Cannes, Plateau de Valensole is about a 2-hour drive away. The surrounding areas of Road D6 provide rows and rows of lavender, but also vibrant sunflowers. You really can’t go wrong visiting this destination as the fields are completely unobstructed, with lavenders as far as the eye can see.

There’s a reason why it’s the most famous, which may make it well worth the drive should you choose Valensole instead.

For either field, the best time to visit would be in July or August – the peak of summer, when the lavenders are in full bloom.

Distance from Cannes: 2 hours.  Distance from Nice: 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Contributed by Antoine and Marielle of Offbeat Escapades.

Lavender Field Tours and Trips:

• Lavender Fields Private Extended Full-Day Tour
• Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour
• Provence and Lavander – Shared & Guided Full Day Tour

Menton

Menton is one of the best places to visit on a day trip from Cannes. Located at only 1 hour by car and 1h25 by train from Cannes, Menton is very easy to access. This charming town is right close to the border with Italy on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.

Menton is nicknamed the “Pearl of France” so you should totally check it out! Not only does it have an ideal situation, but also has a pleasant climate, beautiful architecture with many good photo spots, and great beaches!

You have a lot of things to do in Menton! First of all, you can walk around in the Old Town. The houses with ochre colors and louvered shutters are very pretty there. Also do not miss the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel. Second of all, Menton offers many beautiful gardens. The ones in Villa Maria Serena and Fontana Rosa Garden are some great examples, and you will find there very interesting plants and flowers!

Here is a great walking tour!

Another great place to visit in Menton is the Bastion. This fortress built in the 17th century has been turned into a museum and is decorated by Jean Cocteau, a famous French artist. Last but not least you should definitely spend some time at the beach. Plage des Sablettes is the best one to see if you are on a day trip. It’s located close to the Old Town, and it’s perfect for relaxing while enjoying the view!

Because Menton benefits from a wonderful climate all year long, you can come here any time of the year. It will be quite busy in summer, but you can come in spring or September if you want fewer people.

Distance from Cannes: 1 hour.  Distance from Nice: 45 minutes. If you choose to stay the night, I recommend the Villa Genesis.

Contributed by Ophelie from Limitless Secrets.

Monaco

Located in the heart of the French Riviera, the microstate of Monaco is well-known for its luxurious style, world-famous casino, and Formula 1 race. Monaco is the second smallest sovereign state in the world (after Vatican City) so thanks to its tiny size, spending one day in Monaco is all the time you need to see the main highlights.

Monaco is one of the most expensive countries in the world so if you don’t want to break the bank, it’s better to visit Monaco on a day trip from Cannes (or any other bigger cities on the French Riviera). If you have a rental car, you can reach Monaco from Cannes within an hour via the A8 highway. Alternatively, you can take the train from Cannes to Monaco which takes a bit more than an hour.

Since Monaco is very popular among tourists, try to start your day as early as possible. You can start by walking around Port Hercule, the main port of Monaco, and admire the countless beautiful luxury yachts. Then make your way to the Old Town of Monaco (otherwise known as The Rock), which is arguably the most beautiful part of Monaco with its pastel-colored houses.

Here, you can visit the Prince’s Palace, the Cathedral of Monaco, and the Oceanographic Museum, and you can also enjoy the beautiful panoramic view over the Port.

A day trip to Monaco wouldn’t be complete without visiting the famous Monte Carlo Casino. Even if you don’t like gambling, it’s a really beautiful sight to see, not to mention all those glamorous sports cars parked in front of the casino! If you want to go inside, make sure to wear proper clothing, otherwise, you might not be able to enter.

Distance from Cannes: 1 hour.  Distance from Nice: 30 minutes. If you choose to stay the night, I recommend the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo.

Contributed by Krisztina of She Wanders Abroad.

Monaco Tours to Check Out:

• Monaco Formula 1 Walking Tour
• Tasting of liqueurs of Monaco
• Monaco Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Monaco Private Walking Tour
• The Best of Monaco Walking Tour
• Monaco Walking Tour
• Secret Monaco : Hidden Gems, Art & Monumental Trees

More on Monaco

A great day trip from Cannes is one to the city-state of Monaco. This is a very interesting city and country to visit. It is the most densely populated country in the world and you find it on the French Riviera as well. From Cannes, the journey by train is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It is surrounded on all sides by France, except for the south side where the country borders the Mediterranean Sea.

There are many reasons why you should visit Monaco. There is a large collection of high-rise buildings next to the blue sea, which looks incredible. Furthermore, there are many beautiful viewpoints.

Of these, the view from the Saint-Martin Gardens is the best, as you can see a large part of Monaco from above. Also, Monaco is all about luxury. There are large yachts and many luxurious events. Another great thing to do in Monaco is to visit one of the beaches. Larvotto Beach is a great beach to visit.

Also, you find here the Monte Carlo Casino, a world-famous casino. The best time to visit Monaco is in the months just before and after the summer. There are fewer crowds during that time, the weather is amazing, and the hotels are more affordable then.

Distance from Cannes: 1 hour.  Distance from Nice: 30 minutes.

Contributed by Dymphe of Dymabroad.

Sanremo, Italy

From Cannes, you have many options when it comes to making a decision about a day trip to Italy. Ventimiglia, Dolceacqua, Apricale, and Albenga are some great day trip choices for those who have really little time to sneak away from the French Riviera. Though the most beautiful, most rewarding destination from Cannes for a day trip in Italy is Sanremo.

Sanremo has a little of everything, a little tradition, some luxury, beach, old, and new mixed in a unique style that makes this town charming. It’s also about 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Cannes, so it doesn’t take too much to get there for a day away from the French Riviera. If you’re traveling by train, that’s taking somewhat more, as you’ll need to change 1-2 times.

From Ventimiglia, which town is right on the French border, it takes 15 minutes to get to Sanremo by train, that’s the estimated time you need on the train station to get tickets and get to the platform.

The second reason you should pick Sanremo as a day trip from Cannes is that it’s sufficiently different from most of the resort towns on the other side of the border, to justify the idea just from the point of view of curiosity alone. Sanremo is as elegant as Cannes but less stuffy and self-conscious, and usually speaking, more down-to-earth in the manner of the Italian Riviera.

A third reason to visit Sanremo on a day trip is because of its low-budget family restaurants, which aren’t any easier to find on the French Riviera. In Sanremo however, the family business that’s running simply because the owners love to make food and serve it is a really strong and great tradition.

Also, the architecture in Sanremo’s Old Town, La Pigna will make you fall in love with the Italian style and don't forget the beautiful beaches and views over the town.

Sanremo is definitely one of the best Italian towns to visit when you’re planning a day trip from the French Riviera!

Distance from Cannes: 1 hour and 20 minutes.  Distance from Nice: 1 hour. If you choose to stay the night, I recommend the Royal Hotel Sanremo.

Contributed by Helga from ShegoWandering.

Tours & Experience in Sanremo

• Day hike in the mountains of Sanremo
• Dolceacqua & the Nervia Valley – The home of Rossese wine and Monet's beloved bridge
• Sanremo Food Tour – Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town
• Pizza Making Class in Sanremo
• Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo with Show Cooking
• Pasta & Basta

Tourtour

Deep in the Provencal hills, about an hour from Cannes is Tourtour, a charming and pretty village where you’ll want to stay for weeks! This picturesque medieval village is one of the Most Beautiful Villages (Plus Beaux Villages) in France and is a must-see if you’re road tripping in France.

Tourtour makes a great stop if you're exploring the surrounding olive groves and vineyards, most of which offer tours and tastings of their delicious products, so typical of the Var region. The village is surrounded by rolling hills studded with olive trees and vines planted in straight rows in the rich soil. The oil produced here has a sharp and peppery taste, look out for the rare La Belgentieroise olive which is firm-fleshed, long and green, and perfect for cooking.

Tourtour itself has not one, but two chateaux, the best of these is a typical 16th-century chateau with four round towers which sit at the southeast end of the village. Now housing the Tourtour town hall, the pretty castle has a small courtyard with the most stunning views across the surrounding countryside including the distinct Sainte Vistoire near Aix-en-Provence, and the Luberon. It’s no surprise that Tourtour is called ‘the village in the sky'; viewed from a distance it sits proud on the horizon and dominates the skyline.

Take a slow meander out of the village to the 11th-century Romanesque Eglise Saint-Denis, a simple and striking church that sits atop a small grassy hill, surrounded by beautiful tall cypress trees and more glorious views.

Head to the busy Place des Ormeaux for a fun lunch, where cafes and restaurants line the square and serve wonderful local produce, including juicy tomatoes from the vine with home-grown basil, liberally drizzled with local olive oil. With a glass of chilled white wine, there is nowhere better to be on a sunny day in the south of France.

Distance from Cannes: 1 hour and 15 minutes.  Distance from Nice: 1 hour and 35 minutes. If you choose to stay the night, I recommend the La Bastide De Tourtour Hotel & Spa.

Contributed by Izzy of The Gap Decaders.

Is Cannes Worth Visiting?

Absolutely – it would be impossible to say somewhere this beautiful and iconic is not worth a visit! However, unless you’re looking to live the lifestyle of the rich and famous (and if you are, good for you!), I would consider visiting Cannes on a day trip while staying in Nice or another nearby tour. Cannes is beautiful but expensive and I find that the majority of the top attractions can easily be visited in one day.

Hotel recommendationS

Cannes France

The ultimate destination for luxury and beauty. Here are some of the best hotels in Cannes that provide exceptional amenities and luxuries fit for royalty—you're sure to find something perfect for your budget and your holiday desires.

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As you can see, there are many things to do in Cannes France in one day and it doesn't require staying in Cannes at all! It is a great spot for many day trips, particularly if you are staying in Nice or other towns on the French Riviera. You truly can visit Cannes in a day! Or use it as a home base too.

One thing I didn't write about is the food, the French Mediterranean cuisine is delightful, with lots of seafood! I love the Eater guide because it is updated frequently and there are 2 great posts from the Culture trip on the best restaurants and affordable restaurants because Cannes is expensive!

I mentioned Nice, but if you are following an artistic journey through the south of France, I've got some suggestions for you!

How about you? Have you been to Cannes or Nice? What did you think?

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And that most of the famous brasseries in Paris were opened by Auvergnians (or Auvergnats), the region where Vichy is located? Well, I do! And I am here to share. My mother-in-law has lived here for close to 20 years and I have been to this town just 4 hours by car or 3-hour train ride (there are 24 trains a day from Gare de Bercy!) away from Paris many, many times.

You might have some vague recollection of something less than stellar when it comes to French history during WWII? Yeah, it’s not pretty. During the Second World War, France was divided in 2. Everything north of Vichy was occupied by the Germans. Everything south was Free France and the Vichy government, run by Petain, was the capital.

They had to work closely with the Germans (also known as collaborating) in order to remain free and some of the things they did weren’t pretty. (If you want to get real insight into what France was like at this time I HIGHLY recommend the series, “Un Village Français/A French Village”).

Decades later the page has turned and Vichy continues to be celebrated for what it has always been a spa town and a great one at that. Historically the French came here (with a doctor’s prescription for an annual or biannual cure) even internationally people flew in for a week of pampering and drinking the mineral waters from various sources.

Vichy, France is a beautiful town located on the east banks of the Allier River, it is the second largest town in the Auvergne region, and it is most prominently known for being a spa town. The waters in Vichy are thought to be healing for a wide variety of ailments from arthritis to depression and every condition in between. 

In fact, physicians in France write prescriptions for healing treatments at these spas and they have for centuries. I will cover the spa’s in more detail below, but they aren’t the only thing to see and do in Vichy. Keep reading to learn more about what you should add to your Vichy itinerary. 

Vichy is a great spot for a weekend escapade (or an aggressive day trip) from Paris. It is a walkable city so you don't need a car. All of the highlights I am about to share are within close proximity of each other. So let's get started!

Pre-Napolean III History

During ancient times, Vichy's water was revered by Romans and the Celts, resulting in it becoming a popular bathing site. Gallo-Roman Vichy was already a spa town in 5 BC but remained hidden until the 17th century when the Marquise de Sévigné talked about the benefits of the Vichy waters in Louis XIV’s courts, making it a ‘must-have’ for all the court ladies.

In the late 18th century, Louis XV’s daughters visited Vichy, but were displeased by the marshes and the mud, and convinced Louis XVI to create great bathhouses in the town. He then sent architects to the town to create a lounge room and spacious baths and cabins for their use. While the town faced some downtime during the Revolution, the Second Empire brought a fresh wave of development with it.

Parc Napoleon III (Napoleon III Park)

When you visit Vichy you take a step back into Napoleon III's era. It was modeled as the “Little Paris” of France with urban principles in mind for optimum enjoyment – taking strolls through lush parks and boulevards connected by covered promenades to grand bath complexes. Adorned even further with luxurious villas, hotels, a casino, and an opera theatre.

Napoleon III had a huge impact on Vichy (they even have an annual Napoleon III Festival) and the Parc Napoleon is a 130-hectare (321 acres) park (created in 1861) beside the River Allier. Napoleon III had the park filled with rare and exotic trees. Today the park is filled with more than 30,000 trees around beautifully landscaped walking and cycling trails. The paths are wide and shaded, pets are welcome on a leash, and the park is open daily along the Boulevard des États-Unis.

Parc Kennedy

From the Parc Napoleon when you cross the bridge, le Pont de Bellerive, the road becomes Boulevard Kennedy and the park becomes Parc Kennedy (which was completed in 1867. Not that Kennedy, but his grandfather!

If you want to read the full history of the parks, find it here. The bottom line is that both these parks are fantastic spots for a petite promenade no matter what the season and I love sitting on one of the many benches to people-watch.

Mansions & Chalets of Vichy

Vichy was a playground for the aristocracy and the ultra-rich, especially after Napoleon III became a regular visitor in the 1860s. Having a home in Vichy was seen as a status symbol and for the next hundred years, wealthy aristocrats and their architects built elaborate mansions according to their whims and the architectural style of the moment. 

You can take a guided tour of the mansions in Vichy if you are interested, and if you just want to see some of the most elaborate mansions in Vichy take a stroll down Boulevard des Etats-Unis. These homes were built for Napoleon III and his family and close companions. 

Boulevard des États Unis

The Boulevard des États Unis translates to United States Boulevard in English and is worth taking a stroll down so that you can see all of the amazing architecture here. As the town prepared for the arrival of Napoleon III the architects really prided themselves on outdoing one another with intricate designs.

The chalets built for Napoleon III and Eugenie (his wife) begin at 101 and the architecture is a mixture of Swiss and American colonial. Eugenie’s chalet (105) is easily recognizable by the gilded E on the door. 

Opera de Vichy

The original Opera House in Vichy was located in the back of the casino commissioned by Napoleon III in 1863, like those he had visited in German spa towns. The casino and opera were built quickly and opened in July of 1865, but within two years the casino was hosting more than 2,000 visitors per day and needed to be expanded.

The new opera house, the one that you see today, had its inaugural performance in June 1901. The theater is decorated in the Art Nouveau style in shades of gold and ivory, and it was and still is one of the most unique theaters in all of France. 

There are performances at the theater throughout the year that you can attend and take in the beauty of the design. If there isn’t a performance scheduled during your visit you can take a guided tour of the entire theater. These tours can be scheduled through the tourist information office. 

Les Bords de l’Allier

The Les Bords de l’Allier is a promenade along the banks of the Allier river, where you can find beaches, playgrounds, and beach bars along the banks.

There is plenty of shaded seating, the water is refreshing and while not really deep enough for a swim it’s perfect for cooling off or letting the kids splash in the water. 

There are bars, restaurants, and cafes to stop in for a drink, light bite, or meal. You can watch the sailboats or row a boat.

Pavillon Sevigne 

Prior to 1842, the Pavillion Sevigne was a private residence, but its new owners transformed it into a luxury hotel. In order to attract more upscale clientele they claimed that Madame de Sévigné, an author known for the witty letters she wrote to her daughter, stayed in the hotel when she came to Vichy for treatments in the 17th century. This has never been proven with certainty, but it did increase the hotel’s patronage, and when it was renamed in the early 20th century it became the “Hôtel Sévigné.” 

During World War I the hotel was transformed into a makeshift hospital, and in World War II it was requisitioned for the temporary residence of Albert Lebrun, the President of France, and later the private residence of Marshal Phillipe Petain. Several high-level cabinet meetings and functions were held here, including a meeting with the German ambassador.

Note: On our last trip in the fall of 2022, the hotel was closed, it has been resold and not re-opened (as of yet.)

The “Source” of Vichy's Success

Pun on the word intended! The real treasure of Vichy its sources and spas. It's the primary reason for the visits of hundreds of thousands of French people as well as curists from all over Europe.

Beneath the picturesque town lies nine springs, each playing an important role in the region. From Célestins Spring which is bottled for sale.

The Dome and Lys Springs which are used to prepare thermal muds – these precious waters are meticulously cared for. The Antoine and Bousange are used for shower and bath treatments. The four sources of Vichy healing waters are used by curists: Chomel, Grande Grille, and Hôpital, although the Source de l'Hôpital within the Parc des Sources requires a medical prescription. [Note on our last visit to Vichy in the fall of 2022 the Source de l'Hôpital was closed.]

The Lucas' is used to make some of the most luxurious cosmetics produced right in Vichy.

Nothing is wasted. Even the salts produced by these sources are used to make the delectable pastilles!

Parc des Sources 

The Parc des Sources was commissioned by Napoleon I in 1799 after his mother came to Vichy with one of her sons for a cure. She loved the spa and the city but felt there was a lack of green space for walking around.

Today the Parc de Sources is a gorgeous park filled with chestnut and plane trees. There are covered galleries, pergolas, and beautiful old pavilions where visitors can sit in the shade. 

Halle des Sources

At the north end of the park, you will find the Source de Vichy in the Halle des Sources, a pavilion built in 1903 where the public has access to mineral water from 5 different sources. Note that some of these waters are available by prescription only, so certain sections require a keycard to enter. Source Celestins is one of the taps open to the public and you can fill your own bottle for free or purchase a paper cup from a vending machine for a few cents. 

Vichy Celestins Spa 

You can’t take a trip to Vichy and not experience the reason that the town became famous in the first place! Vichy’s Celestins Spa is the largest spa in Vichy, as a matter of fact, it’s the largest spa in Europe. The spa offers half-day access with the option to schedule treatments if you are just looking for a few hours of pampering, as well as longer stays complete with a prescription for a Vichy mineral water drinking cure that can last for several days or weeks.

A half day spa pass at Vichy Celestins will get you access to a thermal pool, steam room, relaxation room, a cold foot bath, sauna, and an iced tea bar. Additional treatments can be scheduled onsite at the spa. 

Source des Célestins

Spring water from the Source des Celestins is available at the Hall des Sources, but you can also get it here. The water source is housed in an atrium built on a natural terrace overlooking the Allier in the fortified Bourbonnais style architecture of the 15th century. 

The water here is naturally carbonated and comes out of the source at 63 degrees so it is labeled as a cold water source. You can get water here for free as long as you bring your own cup. The water here is used to treat liver, kidney, and stomach ailments and it is bottled and sold around the world with more than 40,000 bottles sold every year. 

Great Thermal Establishment

One thing you will notice while walking near the Parc des Source is the beautiful neo-Moorish dome which houses the Thermes des Dômes in the Centre Thermal des Dômes. The Callou thermal baths are 2 steps away and 1/2 a block from my mother-in-law. It was considered a “first-class” spa facility as opposed to the Source Lardy below which was a “third-class” facility.

Source Lardy

The Lardy source is dormant/closed but still worth a visit. It was built in 1901, closed in 1965 and has been a part of the Pole University since 2001. There is a little park, Hardy that you can walk through from the Source des Celestins up the hill to the Lardy source.

Once you have visited, stop in for a coffee at the Cocoon Coffee Shop (111 Rue Maréchal Lyautey) for the best coffee in Vichy. They are across the street from the Alliance Française school and speak excellent English.

Kiosque & Shopping Arcade

At one of the ends of the Parc des Source, you will find the Kiosque. This kiosk was built by the architect Charles Lecœur in 1902 and is used today for festivities and outdoor concerts. Next to this beautiful bandstand is the horseshoe-shaped shopping arcade with a few restaurants, a beautiful flower shop, and the Vichy Mon Amour store.

Vichy's Passages

Vichy has 8 passages that connected the retail district with the spa district. These days they are pretty derelict, they have not been well taken care of. The best-looking one is the Passage Goboin which was built in 1888 where a former hotel garden stood. The area with the passages and shops is called the Quatre-Chemins (« 4 ways ») district and the mostly pedestrian streets are full of cafés, restaurants, and shops.

If you really want to hunt them all down, you can photos of all 8 in Wikimedia.

Eglise Saint-Blaise

Don’t let the rather plain concrete facade of this 1931-built art deco church keep you from venturing inside. This church is actually two churches built in one. The first church is a 17th-century church of the same name that needed to be expanded, and the expansion was accomplished by building the new church over the original church. Of note on the exterior is the bell tower, which was built in 1956 with its unusual shape and large clock face. 

Inside of the church, you will find beautiful stained glass windows, some featuring scenes from the Bible including the Nativity, and others designed in the art deco style with geometric shapes and embossed with iron. There are also mosaics and frescoes of some of France’s most famous churches. At the rear of the church, in the 17th-century built chapel, you will find Vierge Noire, the black Madonna, that was carved from walnut. People travel from all over France, and even the world, to see the black Madonna. 

Architecture: Walking the Streets of Vichy

Take time to walk around, be a flâneur (someone who walks around not doing anything in particular). The architecture in Vichy is beautiful.

The older part of Vichy is pre-19th Century (there are a few half-timbered buildings with facades but very is left of the medieval period), but most of the downtown area was built at the turn of the 19th century and includes multiple styles: Neo-Venetian, Flemish, Gothic, Classical and Art nouveau.

Mr. Misadventures and I do this all the time. We have been to Vichy so many times that we tend to not have an agenda and wander around to discover new corners on each trip.

Food in Vichy

I am happy to report that the food scene is growing. When we first started going to Vichy it wasn't that great. There are a few “institutions” on the restaurant scene and we have been to them all, but these days we are seeing a lot more options. The region of Auvergne has a rich culinary culture.

There are amazing cheeses like Bleu d'Auvergne, Saint Nectaire, Cantal, Salers, and Fourme d'Ambert to name a few of the most famous. Pork is the main meat in the region, although there are tons and tons of cows that are used for dairy but also for melt-watering beef dishes with Charolais beef from Allier and Salers beef from Cantal.

The local lentils from Puy are world-renowned and if you have never tried l'aligot (mashed potatoes that are more cheese than potatoes you are truly missing out!

Let's talk food.

Le Grande Marche

The Le Grande Marche is The Great Market of Vichy, and it is a huge covered market larger than a city block where you can find vendors of all types including shoe repair. This is the place to look for fresh produce, both prepared foods, and foods that are ready to be cooked at home. More than 65 agricultural producers of Vichy sell their products here, and the Great Market is open six days a week. Do not miss the opportunity to walk through this amazing market, and be sure to go hungry! 

Mr. Misadventures and I shop almost daily here whenever we are visiting Vichy.

Candy & Confections in Vichy

Aux Marocains

Visit Aux Marocains, a chocolate factory, and confectionery shop located on Rue Georges Clemenceau. The Les Marocains Boutique was built under the reign of Napoleon III in 1866 and is listed as a historical monument in Vichy. Here you will find a variety of chocolates, nougatines, marzipan, candied nuts, and pralines.

Maison Moinet

You can buy Vichy pastilles all over town, but to buy from one of the original shops head to Maison Moinet on Rue Source de l'Hôpital. Pastilles are made with mineral salts extracted from the waters of Vichy. They are supposed to be excellent for digestive health, and they are tasty too! The most popular flavors are anise, mint, and lemon. My mother-in-law always brings some to us when she visits!

A Few More Activities

Even though I have been to Vichy more than a dozen times, I have not done everything. There are a few things that just aren't my cup of tea or I haven't got to yet. I still want to list them here in case they are of interest to you.

Musée des Arts d’Afrique et d’Asie

The Musée des Arts d’Afrique et d’Asie is the Museum of African and Asian Arts was first opened in the 1920s as the Maison du Missionaire, is a place for missionaries to stay while they were receiving long-term spa treatments in Vichy. These missionaries would also bring interesting artifacts and items with them from their travels. 

The missionaries would come from the French colonies in Africa, and Asia, as well as South America, and Oceania. Over time the collection at the house grew and the building was transformed into a museum with more than 4000 artifacts. Today you can find coins, furniture, musical instruments, leather works, sculptures, and paintings. 

Hippodrome de Bellerive

The Hippodrome de Bellerive, a horse track is located just across the river from the town of Vichy in Bellerive. The horse track is open each year from May to September and is an exciting way to spend some of your time in Vichy. You can bet on your favored horse to win, and maybe even earn a little extra vacation spending money! 

Centre Omnisports de Vichy 

If you are looking to burn off a little energy while visiting Vichy, stop by the Centre Omnisports de Vichy. Just five minutes from downtown Vichy, here you will find a place to cycle, play tennis or volleyball, go for a run, or kayak down their man-made river. There is also a restaurant and playground on site. 

Golf Sporting Clubs de Vichy

Do you enjoy playing golf? Then you might enjoy playing eighteen holes on one of the oldest golf courses in France. The Golf de Vichy course was designed by Arnaud Massey, and the inaugural round was on May 1, 1908. Don’t know how to play but want to learn? There is also a golf school available here. In addition to the golf course, there is a men's and women’s locker room, a driving range, a putting green, and a restaurant. You do need to make advanced reservations to play a round of golf here, but visitors are heartily welcomed! 

Staying in Vichy

When it comes to visiting Vichy, the one thing I did not look forward to is the hotel stay. I’ve stayed in every hotel in the center and they have some updating to do (said in my best Ricky to Lucy voice). But on our trip in October 2021 for the first time, we stayed in an Airbnb and we were pleasantly surprised.

More than that, actually, our restored “apartment” in a former palace hotel was absolutely adorable, brand spanking new, and retro-modern.

For our trip in the fall of 2022, we stayed in another Airbnb close to the town hall and it was super convenient for everything.

Say what you want about Airbnb, they do instill a sense of competition, and with renewed visibility that UNESCO moniker brings I hope the hotels in the area update themselves toute suite!

You may be wondering if Vichy is worth visiting, and we certainly think so. Vichy may be famous for its healing waters and spa treatments, but it has a lot more to offer as well. There are quaint shops, and cafes on quiet cobblestone streets just waiting for you to explore the treasures inside.

Speaking of cafes and restaurants, make sure you try a Vichy staple while you are there: Vichyssoise, a leek, potato, and sometimes chicken soup that is made with water from Vichy’s springs and served cold. 

Many Vichy visitors compare the city to Paris, without all of the hustle and bustle. Vichy is a calm and quiet town with amazing architecture and a rich history. Quite literally a rich history, seeing as how its first visitors were the wealthy aristocracy from all over Europe. Don’t let that deter you though, there is nothing pretentious about today’s Vichy, and visitors of all kinds are welcomed with open arms. 

How about you? Have you been to Vichy France? Do you want to visit? Do tell!

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Where is Moulins?

Moulins is a commune located in central France, to the north of Vichy. It is named after the many mills that were once located along its river. Moulins is a very common name in France, so to avoid any confusion, it is often called Moulins-sur-Allier. 

Read my full article on Vichy: Vichy France: Queen of Spas and more…

Why did Coco Chanel go to Moulins?

Gabrielle Chanel spent her childhood in rural France where the lives of the poor were rarely documented. As such, not much is known about her early days but we do know that she and her sisters grew up in an orphanage after the death of their mother. The strict rules and the rigid lifestyle of the orphanage did not break her spirit but strengthened her resolve to make something of herself.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Chanel left the Aubezine convent in Corrèze. She joined the canonesses of the Institution Notre-Dame de Moulins. It is here that Chanel finds her Aunt Adrienne, one year her junior. She is also introduced to her grandparents who live in the city center in Moulins, on rue Fausess-Braies.

Chanel’s first job in Moulins 

The nuns of Notre Dame would teach the young women under their care a few trades. Once the young women were capable of working on their own, they would go out and find a job. At the institute, Chanel learned the basics of sewing, and along with Adrienne, soon found her first job as a seamstress at Maison Grampayre located at the corner of rue d’Allier and rue de l’Horloge, a prosperous clothing business in the city.

This is where Chanel learned about the details of clothing and textiles. The two women would welcome customers, take their orders, sell from the shelves, and even make alterations. Gabrielle and Adrienne were soon assigned to the bourgeois clothing department where distinguished ladies would come to get supplies and laces for their households. During this period, the two women lived in an attic just above the store. 

They eventually moved out and rented a furnished room in one of Moulin’s famous districts, on rue du Pont Ginguet. Here, they began their own sewing and when they had the time, slowly built a list of loyal patrons. 

Chanel: Singer or Seamstress?

Gabrielle and Adrienne used to visit the Notre Dame Institute every Sunday for choir. Gabrielle was passionate about singing, so much so that she performed in one of the cafes every evening.

Le Grand Café, an Art Nouveau brasserie at La Rotonde was a hip and happening place in Moulins, mostly visited by the garrison officers. In 1904, Gabrielle was hired as a pauseuse, a singer who fills up the silences between two acts. 

Gabrielle became popular in the cafe for her song, “Qui Qu'a Vu Coco dans l'Trocadéro?” (Who saw Coco in Trocadero). Soon after, whenever she performed, the crowd would cheer by calling her Coco, and Gabrielle Chanel eventually became Coco Chanel. The name would stick with her long after she left Moulins.

Seeing the cheering crowd at Moulins, Coco decided to try her luck in Vichy in 1905 but due to her thin voice, her singing career did not see enough success. She did find some seasonal jobs in the spa town of Vichy but soon had to come back to Moulins.

Read my full article on Coco in Vichy

A Fateful Meeting in Moulins

While coming back to Moulins may seem like starting from square one, it is here that Chanel would find the first turning point of her life. In 1906, Chanel met Étienne Balsan, a former cavalry officer and the wealthy heir to a textile fortune. Even though their romance lasted just a couple of months, her time with him was what changed her destiny and paved a path for her future.

At the age of 23, Chanel had become Balsan’s mistress and moved to Compiegne with him. Balsan’s chateau was a great improvement in Chanel’s life. She was finally able to live a lavish lifestyle where she would ride horses during the day and mingle with the high society and Balsan’s friends in the evening. Balsan, for his part, did everything to keep Chanel happy – from showering her with gifts and jewelry to pandering to her whims and fancies.

Living a luxurious lifestyle also meant Chanel had a lot of spare time on her hands. Looking to fill up the idle hours of the day, Chanel began to create her own hats. Her designs were such a huge success that ladies who visited the chateau would place an order with Chanel. 

A few months later, Chanel met Arthur ‘Boy’ Capel, an English aristocrat and a close friend of Balsan’s, who would become her one true love. In 1908, she left Balsan and moved to Paris with Capel, the city where she would find new heights of success.

Read my full article on Coco in Paris

Coco Chanel in Moulins

While most of it has been restructured or redesigned, the town of Moulins still contains some traces of Coco Chanel. Here are some places that Chanel frequented during her stay in Moulins.

The American Café

Like all the other pedestrians of Moulins, Coco Chanel loved to visit The American Cafe. Built in 1903 by Humbert Robiolio, the cafe is no longer open today, but it is still possible to admire its gorgeous Art Nouveau-style facade.

Address: 21 courses Anatole France

Maison Grampayre

Maison Grampayre was where Gabrielle and Adrienne were first employed as seamstresses. Back in the day, the Maison was a bourgeoise shopping hotspot. Today, the clothing shop has been replaced by a telephone store but the building still shows traces of the word ‘lace’ in French.

Address: the corner of rue d'Allier and rue de l'Horloge

La Tentation

Le Tentation was a hip and happening tea room of the 1900s. The fashionable crowd often included Gabrielle and Adrienne. Today, the tea room has been replaced by a clothing store that retained its original mosaic.

Address: 6 rue d’Allier

Le Marché Couvert

Coco Chanel often visited her older sister, Julia-Berthe Chanel, who along with her husband lived at 21 Place de la Liberté, just behind Le Marché Couvert (the covered market). The Covered Market has always been the commercial heart of the city. Merchants and vendors used to gather at the market every morning to cater to the residents of Moulins.

Address: Place des Halles, rue Datas

Le Grand Café 

The stylish cafe where Gabrielle became Coco, Le Grand Café was the heart of entertainment. With the beautiful Art Nouveau facade with mirrors, painted ceilings, and a glass roof, the cafe was lively chaos of military men. This is where Gabrielle sang her songs and was nicknamed Coco.

Address: 49 place d’Allier

Coco Chanel's time in Moulins was important for a variety of reasons. If you find yourself in Moulins, be sure to check out these key locations associated with her – they give insight into her fascinating life and career.

How about you? Did you know the origins of Coco Chanel's life? Have you been to this region in France? Do tell!

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Where is Vichy and what is it known for?

Vichy is synonymous with thermal waters of volcanic origins that cure several ailments. Located in central France in the Auvergne Region, Vichy gained popularity when Napoleon III reimagined Vichy as “Little Paris” and turned it into a thriving town of spa and leisure.

Read my full article on Vichy: Vichy France: Queen of Spas and more…

Coco Chanel in Moulins and Vichy

In the early 1900s, Chanel left her orphanage to work at the Institution Notre Dame in Moulins where she picked up new sewing skills but also honed her singing voice. In fact, she loved singing so much that she started performing as a pauseuse (someone who sings between acts) at one of the local brasseries, Le Grand Café.

Thanks to her most popular song, “Qui Qu'a Vu Coco dans l'Trocadéro?” (Who saw Coco in Trocadero), she was nicknamed Coco, a name that would stick with her for years to come.

Read my more detailed article on Coco in Moulins

Why did Coco Chanel go to Vichy?

Chanel quickly became popular at the cafe in Moulins and wanted to try her luck in a big city. In 1905, Coco moved to Vichy with dreams of excelling in her singing. In a competitive environment, Coco tried her best to thrive but remained unsuccessful due to her thin voice. In order to keep sustaining herself, she took up a job at one of the thermal spas in Vichy. 

In the Belle Epoque era, thermal spas were at the peak of their popularity. Clients went not only in search of relaxation and cure but also to ‘loosen their corset’ and seek hedonistic pleasure. The spas were also a wonderful space for young women from the working classes to get an income and rise in social ranks.

Chanel worked as a donneuse d’eau– a water girl who would pour prescribed beverages into the glasses of the spa clientele. The uniform for the water girls was quite distinctive, made up of a striped linen dress and a trim white bonnet. It is believed that Chanel was later inspired by this uniform and created her designs based on ‘short’ and ‘white’.

Eventually, Chanel returned to Moulins to go back to her sewing and singing in brasseries. While returning without any success might seem like taking two steps back, it is in Moulins that Chanel would meet Étienne Balsan and be whisked away to his chateau. This is where she began designing hats in her spare time and in due course, met the love of her life, Arthur ‘Boy’ Capel which eventually led her to Paris.

How about you? Are you familiar with Coco Chanel's early history? Are you familiar with Vichy? Do tell!

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When I did it, I rented a car from the Nice airport and headed off to enjoy this very famous part of France. You can also take the train from Paris to Nice, but you know how I love a road trip! I've got a few of my favorite spots to share.

Cannes Film Festival

There is something about the Cannes Film Festival that always represents the beginning of summer for me and my thoughts turn to the Côte d'Azur and the French Riviera region where you will soon find a large concentration of tourists in St. Tropez, Cannes, Nice, and Monaco – all ready to embrace the sunshine and unique lifestyle of that region.

The Scenery

Of all the notable towns I like Nice the best. It has just the right influence of Italian from across the border, it's a paradise with soft light to inspire artists and photographers alike, amazing food to satisfy the most discerning foodie, as well as sights and sounds that will keep you occupied morning-noon-and-night!

As the high season begins I thought I would share a sampling of what you can do in this amazing city by the sea.

It is no wonder that Nice is called Nice la Belle (Nice the Beautiful) because it is absolutely gorgeous year-round allowing any visitor the opportunity to explore every corner without worrying about any bad weather getting in your way. If you visit nowhere else, you must take a stroll on the Promenade des Anglais that runs the length of the seafront where you will find beaches, cafes, and lovely places to stop and take in the world.

If you need to get out of the sun for a bit there are several museums to take in including the amazing Matisse Museum, the Chagall Museum as well as the Nice Archaeology Museum, and Roman Ruins, where you can see the ruins of a Roman arena and bathhouses.

Strolling along the Promenade des Anglais will lead you to two places that you'll want to check out. One is the Cours Saleya, a fantastic market where you can see and buy delicious foods, beautiful flowers, and on certain days, antiques.

The other spot to visit is the Place Massena considered Nice's main commercial street, not only will you find plenty of shopping but you can also take in the neoclassical architecture which is a great photo opportunity.

Another must-do walk when visiting Nice is to climb the steps of the Colline du Château to “Le Chateau” which rests on a summit that offers an amazing view of the Baie des Anges, Old Nice, and the Port, which are some of the most photographed panoramic viewpoints in France. There are idyllic paths in the shade of the trees, great views, and a large grassy park with Roman ruins and a waterfall.

The Food

Eating, oh my! The best thing to do is to take advantage of Nice’s coastal location and Mediterranean lifestyle to enjoy seafood and Italian-inspired menus. Some of my favorites are Boni (15 rue Tonduti de l'Escarène);  Le Savanna (6 passage Emile Negrin);  Au Petit Gari (2 Place Garibaldi – 66 bd Rosso);  and La Gauloise Brasserie (28 ave Malaussena). Also, if you love Japanese food So Good Sushi is the best sushi in Nice.

Besides where to eat there is what. Don’t forget to try out these local specialties:  Socca (a rustic chickpea-flour crepe);  Nicoise salad;  Pissaladiere (oven-baked focaccia topped with caramelized onions, black Nicoise olives, and anchovies); farcis niçois (tiny stuffed vegetables); and sardines.

Hotels in Nice

There are tons of hotel options for visiting Nice. You can choose a seaside hotel or one in the hills, you really can't go wrong with whichever you choose.

On the luxury side, there is the Palais De La Mediterranee Hotel Nice and the Hotel Château Saint-Martin & Spa. In an intermediate price range, you will find the Le Meridien Hotel Nice and Hôtel La Pérouse. For those more budget conscious there are still many choices including Villa Saint Exupéry Gardens and Ibis Nice Centre Notre Dame.

More on Nice

• I love these 7 additional day trips from Nice.
• Cannes is a great road trip from Nice.

These are my notes on Nice, what about you?

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I learned to ski for the first time when I was sixteen. My parents took my sister and me to one of those Warren Miller film tours and signed us up for lessons at Snoqualmie in Washington State. Being the (non)-athlete I was, I sucked and after that first year of lessons promptly forgot everything I learned.

Fast forward twenty years later to my first winter living at the foot of the Jura Mountains and not far from the Alps in France. Mr. Misadventures, whose first wife had been a ski instructor, would not take no for an answer in the “I-don't-ski” department and shipped us off to a ski resort for a week of lessons.

I skied in classes in a mixture of French and English for five days and came out the other side able to hold my own. There is just something special about French ski resorts. They can turn a non-believer into a believer.

There are beautiful, stunning, gorgeous mountains all over the country just crying out to be skied on and plenty of smartly designed resorts of all sizes to entertain and delight (and I swear the food is delectable in everyone!). One of my favorite spots to go is Val Thorens. Mr. Misadventures did some training there when he was a young lad in the French mountain troops and the beauty of the locale drew him back.

It is a resort in the French Alps so it always has snow! And as part of the Three Valleys ski area, there is plenty of room to “spread out” and not feel like you are crowded, even on the gentler slopes where I tend to stick. As an advanced skier, Mr. Misadventures did miss out on the “exciting” runs (that's what I like to call them anyway!).

I think that France has the best ski schools in the world and at Val Thorens, you have access to several. But if you aren't a skier you will still enjoy the resort whether you wander outside for other physical activity or want to be a lodge bunny (I like to do that too!).

Of course, when the Misadventures family travels, food is on our minds and there are plenty of places to fuel up pre and post-skiing. I personally like visiting a local bakery to pick up sandwiches for my lunchtime meal and save my Euros to eat in Michelin-starred Oxalys, run by chef Jean Sulpice. However, there are many options that fit somewhere in between the bakery sandwich and fine dining!

There are plenty of resources for planning Val Thorens ski holidays and I recommend doing a little bit of homework ahead of time. Figure out when the French school breaks are – you don't want to go when they do – everyone descends on the Alps at once. If you can avoid those times, do!

Find more information about the resort on their website (in English) and hotel deals for the area on Trip Advisor.

How to Get to Val Thorens

Planes, trains, and automobiles! Mr. Misadventures and I used to drive from our home in L'Ain near Geneva and in fact, the closest international airport is Geneva (Switzerland) which is 100 miles from the ski area. There are 2 domestic airports (in France) that you can fly into at Chambéry which is 70 miles away and Lyon at 120 miles away.

From any of the airports, you can rent a car (we always go with Sixt Car Rental in France) or take a train to the Moutiers station where you can grab a bus to the resorts. There are also shuttle companies that take passengers between these three airports and Val Thorens (one such company is Mountain Rescue Airport Transfers).

How about you? Have you skied in France? Been to Val Thorens? Have another favorite? Do tell!

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Meribel

Located slap bang in the center of the Three Valleys skiing area, Meribel is a popular resort among Brits. The exclusive spot boasts a homely atmosphere, ten beginner trails and 34 slopes for intermediate skiers, so novices and fast learners are well catered for here.

Meribel is the ideal destination for French group skiing trips with children, as there are plenty of child-friendly sections to explore. The Acticross is one such spot, offering slaloms and jumps suitable for youngsters.

There are three beginner areas in Meribel, known as Zen Zones, where you can learn to ski at your own pace. The apres-ski scene is also buzzing, so groups of friends will find lots of evening entertainment in the way of restaurants and bars, the most famous of which is Rond Point.

Alpe d'Huez

The top resort of Alpe d'Huez has plenty of trails for all skiing ability levels, but the majority are ideal for beginners. There are 47 km of slopes for novices to try out during the winter sports season, which runs between December and April here.

Trails here are well-groomed and the hundreds of snow cannons ensure ideal conditions for skiing. Just above the resort are plenty of wide, gentle slopes, perfect for beginners, who can travel to the top of the trails via the free lift.

In addition to the abundance of beginner slopes, there are opportunities for off-piste action and snowboarding at the terrain parks and on the halfpipe.

When you want some time with your friends or loved ones away from the slopes, you can visit the indoor sports center for a game of tennis, head to one of the 30 local bars or enjoy a movie at the resort's cinemas.

Les Arcs

If you're planning to travel with a young family, the resort of Les Arcs is ideal for a peaceful learn-to-ski break. The area consists of four main villages, and above each, you'll find nursery slopes. Arc 1800 has the most varied selection of beginner slopes, and the lift is free for novices.

Much of the accommodation throughout Les Arcs is right beside the slopes, so you won't have far to travel for your daily skiing fix. There are also some award-winning ski schools to be found throughout the resort.

There isn't a noisy apres-ski scene, making Les Arcs ideal for people who want to relax in peace and quiet in the evenings. There are plenty of restaurants, saunas and massage services though.

Tignes

The town of Tignes is often associated with advanced skiing, and while there are many trails here suitable for experts, there is also a sufficient number for beginners. Novices will find 22 runs that cater to their abilities, along with several ski schools where instructors are on hand to provide expert tuition.

A cosmopolitan resort, Tignes has plenty to offer groups throughout its many different areas. Traditional villages abound, and there are kids' clubs to keep youngsters entertained. If you're keen to experience the resort's party atmosphere, head to the area of Val Claret, where you'll find a good selection of bars and clubs.

How about you? Have you visited any of these spots? Know of any others?

Check out more winter wonderlands in my AFAR Wanderlist.

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Just 45 minutes north of Paris in Bray-et-Lû, ‘Les Jardins d’Epicure’ is an oasis from the fast-paced Parisian life. Part of the Chateaux & Hotel Collection, an alliance of charming hotels throughout la France profound this property certainly does “charm” the senses.

It’s green and gorgeous and well laid out, as well as a great “home-base” for exploring the area of Vexin, including Giverny, the famous stomping grounds of Monet. The hotel provides you with an excellent booklet in each room that details 14 day-trips that you can make from their location as well as information about all the surrounding villages. It’s like having your own private tour guide!

After rambling around throughout the day you will have built up an appetite. The hotel is categorized as having a ‘bon table’ and I’d have to agree. Based on the fact that the hotel alliance is presided over by Alain Ducasse I am not surprised.

But I do wonder how the owners lured Olivier Da Silva out of Paris because he could certainly be installed in any number of restaurants in the City of Light. The food at ‘Les Jardins d’Epicure’ is exceptional, exquisite, and refined.

From the amuse bouche to the douceurs, the dinner was absolutely delicious each surprising combination of tastes was amazing and original.

But then…as you leave the restaurant and pass by the front table of the lobby… if you happen to pick up one of the hotel brochures you will begin to understand. The reason? Mr. Da Dilva received his first Michelin star this past March!

Back in your room, when you are ready to retire, open your window and the bubbling and gurgling of the river (L’Epte) that runs through the property will lull you asleep. You will wake up rested and refreshed – the bed is really good.

Finish your stay with a lovely breakfast, a traditional feast of charcuterie and cheese; fromage blanc with compote and fruit; and an amazing basket of viennoiserie. You will be all set to head back home to gay-Paris.

As an added bonus, stay during the week between mid-September and May and you may have the property to yourself. With the ultra courteous staff, taking care of your every whim will make you feel like lord and lady of the manner!

Les Jardins d’Epicure: 16 Grande Rue, 95710 Bray-et-Lû, France

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I can’t complain about the start of my trip, in fact, I was thrilled. While checking in at the Air France counter an unfortunate computer error caused us to have to wait an extra fifteen minutes resulting in an upgrade to business class. Pas mal!

We had a lovely meal with plenty of champagne and immediately fell asleep only to be woken up by the smell of breakfast – short flight indeed!

Baggage collected, rental car procured (more on that later) we headed to our destination for the evening. Knowing we would be tired after an 11-hour flight and that driving all the way to Normandy might be a little too aggressive, my husband selected a hotel that was an hour away from the airport.

Well, that was the plan in any case.

I think this is a good time to point out a few things when traveling by rental car in France. First, you need to be able to drive a stick, automatics are extremely rare. This wasn’t a problem for us but wanted to note it, as I think there are fewer and fewer Americans who can drive sticks.

Secondly, have a GPS. Even if you rent a car with a GPS, bring your own as backup. Borrow one from a friend or rent one, making sure it has European maps. But, have a GPS.

We rented a car with a GPS, but the language was set to German. The car came with a language disc that would support English and French, but the German disc was stuck in the CD player.

Always have a Plan B. We had our Garmin with us, which saved the day. Throughout the trip, we used both, referring to the rental car’s as “that German lady!”

The other thing to note is that nothing is an “hour away.” You would have to have absolutely perfect conditions and the road to yourself to make it within that time frame.

In this case, we needed to go to the north of Paris which meant that from the airport we had to first drive towards Paris and sit in traffic before we could catch the highway we would need to go north. Factor in that it was rush hour and our one-hour trip turned into two.

But first, we had to figure out the address. For some reason hotel addresses are secret. A lot of hotels will put the city they are in (or near!) and assume you can figure it out when you arrive or in many cases, they say, “give us a call.”

But if you have not brought a phone because you don’t want to pay overseas rates or roaming costs, then you have a little problem. Reason number two to have a GPS – nine times out of ten the hotel will be listed in the GPS. Garmin saved the day again!

It was all worth it when we arrived at our lodging for the night, Les jardins d’epicure, a lovely chateau in Bray-et-Lu (interestingly enough their website now has their address, hmm, did they pick up on my annoyed vibe?).

Despite being tired we had not had a real meal the entire day so we decided to take dinner in the hotel’s restaurant prior to heading to bed. It would keep us up a couple of more hours, which would help with jetlag.

The meal was absolutely divine. Amuse-bouches that consisted of mini croque-mousiers, mini-cheese puffs, and an olive tapenade with parmesan (I think) sticks.

This was followed by a cepes mushroom soup with a cream foam with a slice of prosciutto on top – it tasted like heaven.

Next was my starter, a scallop and citron salad. The scallops were sliced so thin it was like carpaccio. The citron came from an exotic fruit called Kawabaga. My husband had escargot with ravioli of foie gras. We shared bites and his was excellent as well.

Our main courses were good, but nothing spectacular, the exception being the accompaniment that came with my fish…lentils with coquillage – small clams and petit gris (a sea snail) – I would have never in a million years but those two together, but it was utterly amazing and I am going to get my husband to try that at home the next time he makes lentils.

We skipped dessert and took cheese instead. But the meal still ended with sweetness. We were provided a plate of delices to cap our evening: whipped cream with fresh fruit, pate de fruit, and a crazy glass of strawberry cream with pop rocks!

I thought that was too weird, but apparently, my husband did not, as he finished mine for me!

Fully satiated and tired to boot, we headed back to our room and quickly fell asleep. When we woke the next morning we finished our stay with a wonderful breakfast and headed out to start a vacation in Normandy.

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Every May the Fête des fromages takes place in Rocamadour, France. Fête des fromages means cheese festival and how can you not love a festival in honor of a lovely buttery cheese? There is an excellent write-up in English about the town of Rocamadour and their very special cheese if you are interested, the town is beautiful.

I could not think of a better way to celebrate the day than to invite Jennifer of Chez Loulou to guest post about this very special food.

I have not met anyone who seems to love French cheese as much as Jennifer. She writes about them all the time in her own Fête du Fromage posts which I drool over. In fact, I believe she may have tried all of the 246 cheeses that Charles De Gaulle spoke of in his famous quote:

“How can you govern a country which has 246 varieties of cheese?” (Charles De Gaulle, in “Les Mots du General”, 1962)

But Jennifer forces on and even when she visits Paris (she lives in the South of France) she drags her friends around searching out new and exciting cheeses to try. I think I am in love with her! So without further ado…Chez Loulou!

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Rocamadour and Chaource

My obsession with French cheese began about four years after we moved to France.

I've always been a fan of cheese but didn't really know much about the various types available in France other than those well-known ones that I felt comfortable asking for at the cheese counter.

One day I found myself at a Fromagerie in Narbonne, completely frozen with indecision.

I stood there scanning the display, recognizing the big-name cheeses; Cantal, Roquefort, Emmental, Brie, and Camembert, and noticed that surrounding the VIP cheeses were dozens of unfamiliar (to me) fromages in practically every shape and size. Some were soft, squishy, and snowy white, some were creamy yellow and crumbly, some were round, some were square, some were wrinkly, a lot were moldy, and all were incredibly delicious looking.

There were simply too many to choose from! I had absolutely no idea what to buy.

Right then and there I decided that I was going to get to know French cheese. Every single one of them. My Fête du Fromage project was born.

So here I am, three years later, and still happily obsessed. I've tasted over 170 French cheeses thus far and continue on my quest to taste them all.

The following is a list of five of my favorites that are easily found in North America.

Bleu d'Auvergne

Buttery and smoky tasting. A delicious bleu!

Comté

No wonder this one is a favorite here in France. Its distinctive nutty and caramelized flavor is so satisfying.

Brie de Nangis

Smooth and buttery and an absolutely delectable member of the Brie family.

Pouligny Saint-Pierre

This little pyramide is sublime!

Brin d'Amour or Fleur de Maquis

Seductive and soft on the inside. Spicy and herby on the outside.

These cheeses are all available at Murray's Cheese, fromages.com, and artisanalcheese.com.

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Yum! Thanks Jennifer. Also, if you have a Whole Foods or other gourmet grocery store around you can often find many of these cheeses there as well.

My favorites are Blue de Gex, Roquefort, and goat cheese of nearly every variety!

How about you? Do you have a favorite cheese – it doesn't have to be French.

Vive le fromage!

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