European Night of the Museums
The Long Night of Museums is an annual event where museums across Europe remain open late into the night, and Antibes is no exception.
Provençal town designed in the traditional Roman grid system
Situated along the Brague river, the town consists of two separate areas - the old town/village and the technology park of Sophia Antipolis.
The town was built in 1519, based on a grid Roman street plan - a refreshing change from the dark winding streets of many other Provençal villages. As with many towns along the Côte d'Azur excavations carried out in the surrounding hills bear witness to the presence of man going back an extremely long way, even to prehistoric times. While it has quite a lot of boutiques and chic cafes to keep the tourists and resident Brits occupied, it has the feel of a living village rather than being a tourist attraction.
The village is a charming 16th century village of cobbled streets, pastel buildings, colourful shutters and antique markets, all set up around a simply gorgeous central square filled with café tables in the sun. In extreme contrast the neighbouring technology park of Sophia Antipolis, built in the 1970's, has evolved into a highly recognised international community, with more than 1,000 companies hiring more than 25,000 people and specialising in research and development.
With such a rich and vibrant history the town cannot fail to host a wide range of events that reflect its heritage, from weekly markets with local produce, to craft specific markets selling pottery and glass products.
The main summer festival is the 'Rue(z) & Vous', Festival of Street Art. Celebrating arts and culture in the town and bringing the whole place to life with shows, music and exhibitions. This is normally hosted at the start of July.
In September they host the 'Fest'in Val' event which brings together and celebrates the variety of local communities in the area, plus the technological park is open to all!
October sees the International Festival of Salsa, showing once again this is a multi-national community.
The Long Night of Museums is an annual event where museums across Europe remain open late into the night, and Antibes is no exception.
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
Bastille Day is celebrated across the whole of France with a bang...well, several in fact, fireworks always feature heavily.
Exceptional locations around France, including Antibes, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
Valbonne was built in 1519, based on a Roman street plan of a central square with streets running perpendicular to the square and each other. Before this it was a small area called Vallis Bona (good valley) which was formed around the monastery of the Abbey of St Mary (it went on to become the parish Church of Valbonne) which was built by Benedictine monks in the 13th century.
The abbey and surrounding villages were deserted in the middle ages, due to war, drought and the plague. The village known as Valbonne was then founded in 1519 by Augustin de Grimaldi, the bishop of Grasse and abbot of Leyrins. Construction of the Roman influenced grid system (10 streets crossing 10 streets) took over a century and was progressively added to but remained relatively unchanged until the middle of the 20th century.
Although the town and population size have increased dramatically since then, the centre has managed to remain much of its charm and is well preserved.
The 16th century Place des Arcades forms the centre of the village and is lined with lovely cafés and boutiques that you can easy spend a few hours wandering around. There's an ancient mill down by the river, and outside Valbonne there is the extraordinary Roman aqueduct traversing the landscape at Clausonne.
Other sights include the Chalaisan Abbey, built in the Cistercian style, and the church of Valbonne which dates from the 13th century.
The village market is on Fridays, with a second hand market on the first Sunday of every month. Local crafts are well represented, with artisan studios and art galleries displaying traditional pottery and glass works.
This Gothic church was built in Antibes in the 16th century to house the Brotherhood of the White Penitents of St. Bernardin.
Chateau Grimaldi may take you somewhat by surprise if you are expecting the usual historical museum experience - it also holds regular exhibitions of contemporary art and isn’t afraid of displaying bizarre and sometimes challenging installations. The artworks are incongruous in such a traditional context and the collection changes regularly, so you never know quite what you’re going to get when you visit!
From all period and all countries, this museum has a wonderful collection that showcases the history of the postcard.
This museum was set up by outstanding chef Auguste Escoffier who worked as head chef at the Savoy in London. He founded this museum which is dedicated to culinary art.
With items from prehistoric times, and fine arts and decorative arts from as early as the 17th century, all the way up to the first half of the 20th century.
Grasse is the world capital of perfumes. At this museum you can discover the ancient tradition of parfumerie and learn how to create your own, unique scent.
Plage de la Pierre au Tambour runs from the port all the way to Antibes and has a busy road and train line running behind it, neither of which you can hear much. If you stand facing the sea and look to your right you can see Antibes and its 16th century fort sticking out from the mainland.
Right beside the marina, Plage de la Batterie (also known as Plage Villeneuve-Loubet) is a pleasant pebble beach with plenty of activities on offer.
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.
This relatively narrow sand beach is a beach of two halves. The town end is mostly taken up with beach clubs offering a pricey, decadent day lolling about on a deckchair or a pontoon.
Palm trees, sparkling blue waves and soft white sand make Plage des Bouches du Loup feel like a tropical paradise.
This is the main beach of Juan-les-Pins, and it’s also one of the widest. This is a great beach with lots of sand, a great view and a buzzing energy in the summer months.
There are plenty of restaurants and pavement cafés in this lovely town - including a Moroccan, Indian and Italian if you ever need a break from French cuisine (sounds crazy, but I assure you that it happens eventually.) Meanwhile, a slice of pizza, a pain bagnat or a fresh salad in the sun in one of the cafés in Place des Arcades is always a pleasure.
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.
Gourmet restaurant of the Saint-Martin Spa & Chateau hotel to the north of Vence.
Toile Blanche Le Restaurant offers fresh, seasonal dishes inspired by the Mediterranean, where simplicity meets creative flair.
Enjoy a culinary experience at this fine dining restaurant, Les Pêcheurs. It offers a creative cuisine that deftly blends flavours and fragrances from throughout the French Riviera.
La Passagère at Hôtel Belles Rives offers a refined culinary journey shaped by the creative talents of Chef Aurélien Véquaud and Pastry Chef Steve Moracchini. Set against a stunning Riviera backdrop, this restaurant pairs inspired cuisine with a spectacular setting.
La Table de Pierre offers refined, garden-led cuisine by Chef Emmanuel Lehrer in a romantic setting with views over the estate.
Enjoy sea views and delicious cocktails at this jazz lounge in central Antibes.
Moleskine armchairs, panoramic view, masterpieces, cracked oak floors, all complemented by a breathtaking view from the terrace where the sunset is magical.
This nice bar with good atmosphere and eclectic music has a large English-speaking, yachting clientèle.
In this large complex in the centre of Antibes is a big nightclub and a casino. The casino has 180 machines, roulette, blackjack and poker plus a restaurant.
Wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Juan les Pins, opposite the Pinede Park that serves up live music as well.
The club is known for hosting some of Europe’s most popular DJs, as well as its creative theme nights. Imagine a village square at night - cobbled streets, fountains and a lively atmosphere.
The low hills around Valbonne are golf country, and the Opio-Valbonne Golf Club lies just near the village. This par 73, 18-hole course is not particularly challenging but is set in an area of incredible natural beauty, with lovely views and a few tricky shots. There are several excellent courses within an easy drive of Valbonne; see our golfing pages for more details.
There are also numerous walking trails that are marked around the village countryside, where you'll also find many smart villas - home to the employees of the extensive Science Park in neighbouring Sophia Antipolis.
This company is based in Cannes and offers a wide range of road bikes, with delivery available to Antibes.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Take a trip on board this luxury yacht along the Riviera, cruising to any destination of your choice.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Thor is a sleek and contemporary 22.6-metre Azimut motor yacht, built in 2013 and extensively refitted in 2019 to maintain her modern style and premium comfort. Based in Cannes for the summer season, she is ideally placed for exploring the South of France and wider West Mediterranean in style. Combining elegant Italian design with impressive performance, Thor is one of the standout yachts in her class.
Africa Dream is a great Leopard yacht charter, built in 2003 and kept in pristine condition by her conscientious captain. Based in the charming Beaulieu-sur-Mer, she is perfectly situated for a Monaco Grand Prix yacht charter, or for venturing to the stunning Italian Riviera.
This 36.58m Northcoast built vessel is a stand out yacht, sleeping eight guests in four cabins and offering everything you could ask for of a yacht. She is the ideal yacht for socialising and entertaining guests, whether they be family or friends due to her remarkable leisure and entertainment facilities.
Charter a yacht Antibes this Summer with the beautiful and fun Ferretti To Escape. Offering great value and an abundance of exterior space for yacht in this size category, To Escape is the ultimate weekend cruiser.
The perfect choice for a Rome luxury yacht charter, Bugia boasts elegant design with generous space. Steel built Bugia was delivered in 2006 by Termoli shipyards. Her interior design showcases fine marble and wood finishings, while her exterior maximises the available deck space to create a fun and relaxing charter yacht.
Barracuda Red Sea is a stunning 37m superyacht, built in 2010 by British yacht specialists Sunseeker. This tri-deck beauty showcases the design expertise of Don Shead, with a striking exterior that’s sure to turn heads. Step on board and explore the inviting waters of the Mediterranean in style.
Based in Antibes, their kayak & SUP activities extend along the French Riviera and include the Iles de Lerins.
Discover more than 30 dive sites with the help of this diving school, located on the Port Santa Lucia in St Raphael.
They offer various sailing and windsurfing courses aimed at all ages, from 5 year old children to adults. There is also the possibility of renting a boat, or booking private lessons.
Airxkite offers full courses on kite surfing, including theory and practical. All Airxkite classes in the water take place between April to November.
If you feel like a change from the beach, take a trip to the local public swimming baths. There is a 25-metre swimming pool inside, plus an outdoor 50-metre pool with a diving board.
They adapt to the overall level of the group so that everyone can spend an unforgettable day together whether you are a family of beginners or a group of experienced kayakers.
Located on a quiet street just one block away from the stunning French Riviera, the 1-bedroom Lovely Terrace 5B Sweet Inn vacation apartment offers a stylish abode in one of Juan les Pin’s best areas.
6km from Valbonne in the town of Roquefort-les-Pins, beautiful Provencal farmhouse renovated in 2021, located on a plot of approximately 3,000 m².
Located on a quiet street just one block away from the stunning French Riviera, the 1-bedroom Lovely Terrace 6B Sweet Inn vacation apartment offers a stylish abode in one of Juan les Pin’s best areas.
In the area of Roquefort les Pins in 6 km from Valbonne, in a residential and green area, nice villa on a land of 2600 m².
Located on a quiet street just one block away from the stunning French Riviera, the 1-bedroom Deluxe Terrace 1C Sweet Inn vacation studio offers a stylish abode in one of Juan les Pin’s best areas.
In the town of Vallauris, we present the villa "Luma" located in height, without direct vis-à-vis, with a very beautiful sea view, on a plot of 800 m².
There are several chain hotels that serve business travellers who are visiting the technology park at Sophia Antipolis. There are also a couple of charming hotels in the area for holiday makers searching for something a bit more Provençal.
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.
This beach hotel is located in the Juan-Les-Pins area of Antibes and boasts fantastic sea views. Unlike many hotels in the area this architecture is sleek and modern and as expected, the interior mimics the opulence of the exterior.
Hotel Juana is a stylish 1930s landmark offering timeless elegance, refined service, and an enviable location on the French Riviera.
Effortlessly elegant and full of charm, this authentic Provençal mas offers a peaceful escape for romantic getaways and family retreats alike.
This celebrated Provençal inn combines elegant accommodation with a private collection of modern art by renowned 20th-century artists.
This five-star Relais & Châteaux resort offers elegant rooms, exceptional facilities and a peaceful setting near Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
If taking the bus make sure yours is going to Valbonne village rather than Valbonne Sophia Antipolis, as some terminate early. Buses run from Antibes (10) from Nice (230), or from Cannes (630).
From Nice airport to Antibes, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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.
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.
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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.
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
Located in the sought-after residential area of Peyregoue, in Antibes, this semi-detached villa enjoys a peaceful and secure setting within a gated community offering tranquility and excellent lifestyle.
Completely redesigned, Le Provençal is an exceptional residence combining timeless elegance and contemporary luxury. This former iconic hotel now features 41 top-of-the-range accommodations spread over ten floors, enhancing its Art Deco heritage through refined architecture and interiors.
A beautiful property overlooking the sea, set in a quiet residential area of Cap d'Antibes, near the beaches and all amenities.
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.
See allLatest News & ReviewsYou 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.
See allUpcoming Events