What to do on the Côte d’AzurActivities and discoveries for the whole family

When you set foot on the Côte d’Azur, you’ll enjoy a sunny interlude between turquoise seas, spectacular landscapes and charming villages. This mythical southeastern coastline attracts families, couples, idlers and curious adventurers. Whether you’re dreaming of building sandcastles or strolling through the lively lanes, there’s something for everyone. Preparing a holiday on the Côte d’Azur requires a bit of organization, as there are so many places to visit and experiences to enjoy. Here’s some inspiration for a memorable vacation on the Côte d’Azur, where young and old alike will never see the passing of time.

Discover guarded beachesand secret coves

The Côte d’Azur often attracts families for its golden beaches and translucent waters. Several emblematic towns boast supervised beaches perfect for children, combining safety with easy access. Saint-Raphaël, Antibes and La Croix-Valmer offer stretches of fine sand on which to lay your towel in complete serenity. Toddlers love splashing about in the shallow waters, while older children enjoy beach games.

But the wild soul of the Côte d’Azur is also revealed by its discreet coves nestled between the rocks, accessible on foot or by boat. Ramatuelle, near Saint-Tropez, abounds in small pine-fringed beaches. At Théoule-sur-Mer, under the benevolent eye of the Estérel, tiny coves invite you to swim away from the crowds. These unspoilt spots are just as appealing to families as they are to couples in search of peace and quiet.

Explore unspoilt islandsand sea excursions

A getaway to the islands of the Côte d’Azur is always synonymous with wonder: crystal-clear waters, fragrant pine forests and the mild Mediterranean climate provide the perfect backdrop. Porquerolles, the jewel in the crown of the Port-Cros National Park, is the perfect place for an easy family outing, with long cycle paths leading to pristine beaches such as the famous Notre-Dame. Cycling, walking or picnicking in the shade are all part of the day’s activities, not to mention exploring the island’s botanical gardens.

Opposite Cannes, the Îles de Lérins offer a soothing atmosphere, accessible by sea shuttle. Young and old alike can follow in the footsteps of the monks of Saint-Honorat island, or imagine themselves in the shoes of the mysterious “man in the iron mask” at the royal fort of Sainte-Marguerite. Secret swimming and fish-watching spots abound around the rocky shores, offering a unique experience of Mediterranean nature.

No visit to the region is complete without a trip out to sea. All the ports, from Nice to Saint-Raphaël, offer a variety of excursions: exploration of the calanques, private cruises or simple speedboat trips to natural sites inaccessible from land. These outings are the perfect opportunity to discover the marine fauna and enjoy an unparalleled view of the Côte d’Azur’s exceptional towns and villages overlooking the Mediterranean. For thrill-seekers, some service providers offer paddleboarding, kayaking or even scuba diving lessons, putting water sports and sea activities at the heart of the family program.

Animal parks, nature parksand family walks

The Côte d’Azur also knows how to cultivate nature and arouse children’s curiosity thanks to its animal parks and ecological reserves. Parc Alpha, nestled in the Mercantour, plunges the whole family into the heart of a pack of wolves in their semi-natural environment. Down in the valley, the Phoenix park offers a botanical and zoological journey through tropical greenhouses and water basins, ideal for hot or uncertain days.

When it comes to walks, there are many flat paths suitable for baby carriages, such as the coastal path at Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat or the coastal path at Cap d’Antibes, offering sumptuous panoramas of the deep blue sea. Taking a dip in a cove after a walk is a simple pleasure that everyone can enjoy. The region’s nature parks also invite you to discover the varied landscapes and local wildlife.

Perched villages and Provencal markets :authentic immersion

A few kilometers up the hill is enough to change the scenery. Perched villages such as Eze, Gourdon or Saint-Paul-de-Vence offer a different perspective on the Côte d’Azur. Their cobbled streets wind between ochre houses, artists’ studios and flower-filled squares. Every turn offers a breathtaking view of the sea, and invites you to savor an artisanal ice cream or a local specialty. These stops also provide an opportunity to introduce children to the region’s cultural heritage. Guided tours, creative workshops and temporary exhibitions often mark the summer season, arousing the curiosity of the whole tribe.

When it comes to flavors, there’s no substitute for a morning at the Provencal market to sample the art of living in the South. Juicy fruit, marinated olives, mature cheeses and lavender bouquets awaken the senses. The markets of Nice, Menton and Fréjus invite you to discover local produce, create vacation memories and glean ideas for an impromptu picnic under the pines. Children will love watching the craftspeople and taking part in traditional cooking demonstrations.

Sporting activitiesand coastal walks to share

Looking for action or fresh air? The Côte d’Azur has something for everyone, thanks to its countless outdoor activities. Numerous clubs introduce youngsters to sailing or catamarans, while the more sporty dare to surf on some of the Mediterranean waves on windy days. Coastal walks appeal to the whole family: the Douaniers trail between Saint-Tropez and Cavalaire, or the Nietzsche trail in Eze, promise breathtaking views without too much technical difficulty. Numerous nature parks, such as Estérel and Mercantour, also offer the chance to observe wildlife, walk through fragrant forests, or simply enjoy a picnic by the sea.

These nature walks are the ideal way to recharge your batteries, share a convivial moment with family or friends, and discover the natural riches of the Côte d’Azur coastline. Nature lovers particularly appreciate these suspended moments in front of the blue Mediterranean.

Visits to museums and historic monuments
Supervised beaches and family bathing
Island excursions (Porquerolles, Lérins)
Typical hilltop villages to explore
Provencal markets and local specialities
Numerous water and sea activities
Coastal walks for all ages
Discover wildlife parks and botanical gardens

Cultural outings, convivial eveningsand top-of-the-range accommodation

Even when the sun is shy, the region’s emblematic cities offer a multitude of museums with a variety of themes. Cannes, Grasse or Nice have galleries dedicated to modern art, perfumery or Mediterranean history. Between two swimming sessions, why not contemplate a collection of masterpieces or stroll through museum villas surrounded by carefully tended gardens and green spaces? Festivals and events also take place in the evenings and at weekends. For some families, attending a show in an open-air theater or admiring a fireworks display on the seafront is a pleasant surprise.

To prolong the magic, enjoy evenings by the sea, savor a typical dinner on a lively terrace or mingle in the festive atmosphere of the night markets. Couples and families alike are sure to find something to suit their tastes: relaxation, cultural discoveries and gourmet delights.

Finding a comfortable pied-à-terre plays a key role in the success of a family vacation. On the Côte d’Azur, the 5-star Domaine de la Bergerie campsite is the ideal place to stay, combining luxurious facilities with a warm atmosphere. Nestled in a vast wooded area, it offers accommodation to suit every need: spacious pitches, modern mobile homes and facilities designed to relax parents and children alike.

Heated pools, kids’ club, friendly restaurant and direct access to the most famous beaches and coves make Domaine de la Bergerie the perfect base for exploring the region’s main treasures. After a day full of activities or excursions, everyone enjoys the green calm of this Provencal haven just a few kilometers from the hustle and bustle of the coast.