Welcome to Antibes
Traditional & historical old coastal town on the French Riviera
The ancient walled town of Antibes is one of the liveliest and prettiest on the Riviera with its relaxed beachy feel, thriving superyacht port and gorgeous old town of narrow cobbled streets, markets and cafes. Famous for being home to the Spanish painter Pablo Picasso, Antibes certainly saw its fair share of glitz, glamour and a touch of the avant-garde through the 20th century.
Of all the seaside towns of the Riviera, Antibes is probably the most instantly recognisable thanks to its iconic skyline made up of a wonderful jumble of old buildings sitting on the high ramparts above the sea, dominated by the tower of the Picasso Museum rising above. The curve of Port Vauban, the largest marina in Europe, is home to huge white superyachts while the old fort stands watch on the far side.
Lying to the east of Cannes, Antibes offers a calmer, more traditional vibe. Its old centre is a warren of pretty cafes and bars, ice cream shops and boutiques, with the busy Provençal market at the top of the town. On the far side of Antibes, golden sandy beaches looked over by modern apartment blocks curve around to the famous Cap d'Antibes, where the gated villas of oligarchs sit along the rocky coast.
Latest news, reviews & events in Antibes
Find out all about what is happening in Antibes and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in this charming Riviera town.
You will not be short of entertainment in this beautiful French Riviera town, especially during the summer. Markets are very popular, selling everything from local produce to arts & crafts and second-hand objects. There are also plenty of cultural and musical events, including world-famous festivals like Jazz a Juan, as well as regattas and other sports competitions.
What to see & do in Antibes
Head out onto the beach and venture into the sparkling blue waters to enjoy a whole range of watersports or, to experience more of the coast along Antibes, hire a yacht or book a boat trip. There are also plenty of sporting activities on dry land, such as exploring the Cap d'Antibes on bike or foot. Shopping is also a popular option, either at the local markets or the designer boutique shops.
The Musée Picasso is probably the most famous museum in Antibes. It is situated in the Chateau Grimaldi where Picasso stayed for six months in 1946. He always felt connected to the town of Antibes so, on his departure, he left a number of his art pieces behind. The Fort Carré is a fantastic old stone building that perches on the edge of the Saint-Roche Peninsula offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean sea.
History & Culture in [locality]
Antibes is an ancient town first known as 'Antipolis' by the Greeks when its port was used for trading. A key outpost in the Mediterranean throughout history, in the 20th century it began attracting bohemian artists and tourists.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
There are a number of museums and galleries where you can immerse yourself in the history and culture of Antibes. The Fort Carré, on the outskirts of the famous Port Vauban, offers stunning views out over the sea.
Sights in Antibes
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Caves of Saint Cezaire, Grasse
The awe-inspiring caves of Saint Cézaire are six million years old. Discovered by a farmer digging his field in 1890, they boast a wealth of beautiful, natural rock formations in fantastical forms.
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Musee de la Photographie (Photography Museum)
Right in the centre of the old town of Mougins is an interesting photography museum. On display are various antique cameras plus old photography equipment, and a large collection of portraits of Pablo Picasso.
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Musee Picasso (Chateau Grimaldi)
The Picasso museum is housed in the Chateau Grimaldi in the centre of the town of Vallauris. The chateau was built over a Roman fort in the 16th century.
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Musee de la Mer, Ile Sainte-Marguerite
Situated within the Royal Fort on Ile Sainte-Marguerite in the Bay of Cannes, this museum is a place not only of learning but also of rich history.
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La Verrerie de Biot
The glass tradition in Provence dates back thousands of years, but it has has been a major industry in Biot since the 1950s.
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Espace Mer et Littoral (Graillon Tower), Cap d'Antibes
This museum is located in the Graillon Tower on the tip of the Cap d'Antibes. It boasts panoramic views from its large terrace.
Beaches in [locality]
Antibes is the first town along the coast from Nice that has natural sandy beaches, and there are several to choose from. On the Cap d'Antibes itself, you'll find small pebble coves shaded by pine trees.
Beaches in Antibes
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Plage de la Gravette Beach
Plage de la Gravette has a lot going for it. It’s wide, sandy and it’s right in the middle of the old town, making it perfect for a quick swim while exploring Antibes, or to spread out with a picnic for the day.
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Plage du Ponteil Beach
This lovely long stretch of sand is where most Antibes locals would head when they say ‘I’m going to the beach’. It’s a nice sand beach with a stunning view, although it’s not terribly wide and does get super-packed in summer.
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Blue Flag beaches in Antibes
The FEE (Foundation for Environmental Education) is a non-profit organisation that awards the sought-after Blue Flag label. And if you're planning a visit to Antibes and its beaches you'll be pleased to know that it has some Blue Flag beaches.
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Plage de la Salis Beach
Running from Antibes Sailing Club down to the beginning of Cap d’Antibes, this laid-back beach has lovely soft white sand and stunning views back over the Old Town and the Alps. Like the neighbouring Plage du Ponteil, this beach gets packed in the summer and is busy well into the long twilight hours with volleyball games, music and picnics.
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Plage du Fort Carre and Plage de la Fontonne beaches, Biot
Antibes sits at the far end of the Bay of Angels (Baie des Anges), a vast sweep of azure blue sea that washes up on a smooth pebbled shore.
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Ponton Courbet Beach, Juan les Pins
This is a relatively narrow sand beach, backed by the Promenade du Soleil. It’s got a nice view across the bay and is very central to town.
Events in [locality]
Events in Antibes
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Villeneuve-Loubet night market
Stalls with souvenirs, handmade objects, beach articles and much more held on the seafront at Villeneuve-Loubet.
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Festival d'Art Sacré
Showcase for some of the finest heritage treasures of the town and host to a programme of exceptional concerts in the Cathedral of Antibes and the Saint-Bernardin chapel.
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Jazz au Château, Cagnes sur Mer
Gather at Place du Château on a Friday evening to enjoy a wonderful evening of live music in an unforgettable venue.
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Musical Fireworks Festival, Juan les Pins
Fireworks display in the Bay of Juan les Pins. A wonderful way to celebrate the long, hot summer evenings on the Côte d'Azur.
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Pottery market
The RAJAC association has organised an exhibition, sale and demonstration of pottery in Antibes.
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Nocturnes d'Art (evening art performances), Biot
Live shows, children's workshops, cultural walks, live music and a whole host of other shows including performance and dance, fashion shows, fairy and aerial shows or plays.
Dining in [locality]
Antibes has more restaurants and cafes than you can shake a stick at. Crepes, Italian cuisine, French bistro-style food, Michelin-starred eateries and Provencal grub are all well represented.
Restaurants in Antibes
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Le Nacional Restaurant
Le Nacional is a THE Beef and Wine restaurant in the heart of historical Antibes. A restaurant that will excite the taste buds of gourmet meat aficionados. The choicest pieces of beef provided by the highest quality butchers.
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La Table de Pierre Restaurant, St Paul de Vence
La Table de Pierre offers refined, garden-led cuisine by Chef Emmanuel Lehrer in a romantic setting with views over the estate.
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Le Saint-Martin Restaurant, Vence
Gourmet restaurant of the Saint-Martin Spa & Chateau hotel to the north of Vence.
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Cafe Royal Restaurant
The Cafe Royal is located on the ground floor of the Hotel Royal Antibes.
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La Cap Beach Restaurant, Juan les Pins
Open from April till October for lunch and from June till mid-September for dinner, this fantastic restaurant offers delicious fresh Mediterranean cuisine.
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Le Jardin Restaurant
Ideally located on the hill in Cannes, the Hotel de Mougins is only five minutes from Sophia Antipolis, ten minutes from Cannes and Grasse, and twenty five minutes from Nice International Airport.
Things to do in [locality]
There is plenty to do in the old town of Antibes. With a bustling and thriving town centre and surroundings you are never short of activities to do, including shopping, watersports, hiking, cycling and sailing.
Things To Do in Antibes
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Luxury Lizard Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Luxury SMILE Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Road bike hire
This company is based in Cannes and offers a wide range of road bikes, with delivery available to Antibes.
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Motorbike hire
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
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Cannes Islands Boat Trip
A trip on a luxury motor boat with the professional crew to guide you on a fabulous day out on the ocean from Antibes to Cannes.
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Luxury To Escape Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Nightlife in [locality]
The nights in Antibes tend to be lively in the warmer months, with a plethora of bars catering to a mostly tourist and yachting crowd till late. Wine bars, pubs with live music and late-night bars with DJs are all on offer.
Bars & Clubs in Antibes
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Royal Lounge Bar
Enjoy sea views and delicious cocktails at this jazz lounge in central Antibes.
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Fitzgerald Piano Bar, Juan les Pins
Moleskine armchairs, panoramic view, masterpieces, cracked oak floors, all complemented by a breathtaking view from the terrace where the sunset is magical.
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Pam Pam, Juan les Pins
Pam Pam and her team invite you to discover or rediscover a wide selection of cocktails, alcoholic or not.
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Bar a Vin le 61 Restaurant
Opposite the Old Port, this wine bar has a great selection of wines that you can enjoy whilst looking out over the water, yachts and marina.
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Drinkers Club
This nice bar with good atmosphere and eclectic music has a large English-speaking, yachting clientèle.
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Les Pirates Bar Events, Juan les Pins
Les Pirates Bar is in an exceptional location where you can savour delicious cocktails on the beach while enjoying wonderful views of the Mediterranean sea.
Where to stay in [locality]
There are a small handful of hotels to choose from within the town of Antibes itself. However, the majority of boutique hotels and luxury villas are located along the coast of the Cap d'Antibes and in Juan Les Pins.
Hotels in [locality]
Hotels in Antibes
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Royal Mougins Hotel
Located just a few minutes' drive from the charming medieval village of Mougins, this stunning four-star spa hotel enjoys a truly exceptional setting.
Price: €2,588
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Les Rosées Hotel
Effortlessly elegant and full of charm, this authentic Provençal mas offers a peaceful escape for romantic getaways and family retreats alike.
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Le Saint Paul Hotel, Saint-Paul de Vence
Tucked inside the medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence, Hotel Le Saint Paul offers timeless charm, artistic flair, and refined hospitality in a Relais & Châteaux setting.
Price: €2,016
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Villa Miraé
Villa Miraé offers a serene retreat in Cap d’Antibes, featuring luxurious rooms and Mediterranean-inspired dining by Chef Mauro Colagreco. Experience elegant interiors, breathtaking gardens, and unforgettable cuisine in a prime location on the French Riviera.
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La Colombe D'Or Hotel, St Paul de Vence
This celebrated Provençal inn combines elegant accommodation with a private collection of modern art by renowned 20th-century artists.
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La Villa Hotel, Juan les Pins
La Villa Cap d'Antibes, a four-star hotel, offers an intimate boutique experience, blending discreet elegance with a serene atmosphere.
How to get to [locality]
Antibes is a major town on the French Riviera that lies just to the east of Cannes. Only 15km from the international airport in Nice, it is easily accessible for those in search of a little piece of paradise.
Transfers for Antibes
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Private airport transfers
From Nice airport to Antibes, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
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Helicopter Charter Flights
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.
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Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Car Riviera Airport Transfers
Car Riviera offers a range of cars available for hire with a driver to chauffeur you either to and from the airport, for sight seeing trips or just to and from dinner so you can sit back and relax. Large vehicles such as Espace and Multi vans are at your disposal.