10 tips for the perfect day out in Antibes during your holidays on the Mediterranean coast

On the azure coast of southern France, between Cannes and Nice, lies the charming town of Antibes – a place where Mediterranean atmosphere, art, culture and relaxation come together. The winding streets of the old town, the smell of lavender and freshly baked bread, the white yachts in the harbor: Antibes breathes the South of France. After a walk through Antibes, you can relax on one of the terraces on the cozy squares for lunch or just a glass of wine. For those staying in a holiday home in Provence or a luxury holiday villa on the Côte d'Azur, a day trip to Antibes is definitely worth it. Antibes combines the best of both worlds: the authentic French life and the glamour of the Côte d'Azur. Below you can read ten inspiring tips for a wonderful day in Antibes, one of the atmospheric coastal towns on the Mediterranean Sea.

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1. Wander through the old town of Antibes

The old town – Vieil Antibes – is a maze of narrow alleys, colorful houses with wooden shutters and blooming bougainvillea. Here you can taste the atmosphere of the real South of France. Small squares with fountains invite you to have a coffee on a terrace, while charming galleries and boutiques sell unique arts and crafts. Visit the Marché Provençal, a covered market where scents of herbs, olives, and cheeses fill the air. Local farmers and artists sell their products here daily. This is also the perfect place to fill a basket for a picnic by the sea. This is an ideal excursion during your holiday in the South of France or when staying in a holiday home near the Mediterranean Sea.

2. The Picasso Museum at Château Grimaldi

Perched on a rocky outcrop above the sea stands the impressive Château Grimaldi, a historic castle built in the 15th century. In 1946, Pablo Picasso worked here for a few months and later donated dozens of works to the city. Today, the Musée Picasso is one of the highlights of Antibes, with paintings, ceramics and drawings that breathe the creative energy of the artist. The museum also offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a must for art lovers and a wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle.

3. Port Vauban port – luxury yachts and maritime atmosphere

The Port Vauban is one of the largest marinas in the Mediterranean and a symbol of the Côte d'Azur. Here you will find the impressive yachts of the rich and famous, interspersed with fishing boats that remind you of Antibes' maritime past.You can stroll along the quay, with a view of the Fort Carré, which once protected the city from invaders. This is a great place to go for a stroll, especially in the evening.  Dine in one of the cozy restaurants with a view of the water. After a delicious dinner, you will return to your luxury villa in FranceComfort Domaine de Castellane or FranceComfort Résidence de Salernes.

4. Beaches of Antibes – sun, sea and relaxation

Antibes boasts beautiful beaches that are perfect for families. Plage de la Gravette, near the old town, is a sheltered sandy beach with shallow waters. Ideal for children. A little further away you will find the beaches of Juan-les-Pins, with a lively promenade full of beach bars, ice cream parlours and shops. You can choose between quiet bays or lively beach clubs The beaches of Antibes are among the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. The sea is clear blue and invites you to swim, snorkel or paddleboard.
For those who rent a luxury holiday home in the South of France, a day on the beaches of Antibes is a wonderful change of culture and relaxation.

5. The Tirepoil hiking trail – along cliffs and seascapes

For lovers of nature and nature reserves in the South of France,  the Sentier du Tirepoil, also known as the Cap d'Antibes hiking trail, is a must. This path winds along the rocky coast and offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The smell of pine trees and the sound of waves make this walk along the coast of the Côte d'Azur unforgettable.
Bring sturdy shoes and some water, as the trail is about 5 kilometers long. Along the way you will pass small coves and hidden beaches where you can cool off for a while.

6. Culture and churches – from cathedral to fortress

In addition to the Picasso Museum, there are several historic buildings in Antibes that are worth visiting. Located  in the heart of the old town, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-la-Platea has an impressive Baroque façade and beautiful frescoes. The Chapelle Saint-Bernardin, with its Gothic details, is also beautiful.
Those who love history can also visit Fort Carré. This 16th-century fortress is located on a hill near the harbor and offers panoramic views of the bay and the Alps.

7. Shopping in Antibes – from Provencal markets to boutiques

Antibes is a paradise for those who love shopping. In the old town, you will find charming boutiques, art galleries and delicatessens. Rue Sade and Rue Clemenceau are lined with shops selling local fashion, handmade jewellery and Provençal products.
If you prefer more modern shops, you can go to Juan-les-Pins, where you can find international brands, perfumeries and beachwear shops. This is the perfect place combine some shopping with a delicious lunch by the sea.

8. Events and festivals – music, art and fireworks

Antibes is bustling with events all year round, especially during the French public holidays. In July, the world-famous Jazz à Juan festival takes place in Juan-les-Pins, where international artists perform under the stars. In addition, there are art markets, sea and flower festivals, and spectacular fireworks displays in the summer, especially around the Fourteenth of July, a public holiday.
In autumn, the city becomes quieter, but the atmosphere remains lively. Locals gather in the squares, and restaurants host wine and truffle nights. Each season has its own charm.

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9. Activities and water sports

On the coast of Antibes, you can practice almost all types of water sports: sailing, snorkeling, diving, paddle boarding, jet skiing and even parasailing. The sea is calm and clear, ideal for families and adventurers. There are several water sports centers that offer lessons for both beginners and experienced athletes. A boat trip to St. Tropez or to the bay of Cap d'Antibes is also a wonderful experience – especially at sunset.
Those who prefer to stay on land can cycle along the coast or walk along the promenade, play beach volleyball on the beach or take a tour with an electric scooter. Children will have a lot of fun in Antibesland, a water park with slides, ideal for hot summer days.

10. Culinary Antibes

Mediterranean cuisine plays a leading role in Antibes. Fresh fish, vegetables, olive oil and herbs make every dish a feast.

Restaurants in Antibes

Five popular restaurants worth visiting:
Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit – refined Michelin-starred Provençal cuisine.
Le Broc en Bouche – cozy and authentic, with local cuisine.
Chez Lulu – charming bistro atmosphere in the old town.
Les Pêcheurs – seafood restaurant by the sea with stunning views.
La Taille de Guêpe – refined dishes where flowers are used as an ingredient.

Regional dishes in Antibes

Typical dishes to try in Antibes:
Bouillabaisse (fish soup from Provence)
Socca (crispy chickpea flour pancake)
Salade niçoise
Ratatouille
Tarte tropézienne
for dessert

Combine dinner with a glass of local rosé and the smell of the sea – and you'll understand why so many travelers fall in love with Antibes.

Veelgestelde vragen over Antibes

1. Is Antibes geschikt voor gezinnen met kinderen?
Ja, zeker! De stranden zijn veilig en ondiep, er zijn speeltuinen, en Marineland ligt vlakbij. Ook het wandelen over de kade is leuk voor jonge kinderen.

2. Waar kun je het beste parkeren in Antibes?
Er zijn meerdere parkeergarages rondom de oude stad, zoals Parking du Port Vauban en Parking Pré-des-Pêcheurs. Vanaf daar loopt u gemakkelijk het centrum in.

3. Welke markten zijn er in Antibes?
De Marché Provençal is dagelijks open (behalve maandag) en biedt streekproducten van de Provence, kaas, kruiden en kunst.

4. Wanneer is de beste tijd om Antibes te bezoeken?
Van april tot oktober is het weer aangenaam en zijn de terrassen levendig. Juli en augustus zijn het drukst, maar ook de meest sfeervolle maanden.

5. Hoe combineer ik Antibes met een verblijf in een vakantiehuis in de Provence?
Antibes ligt centraal aan de Côte d’Azur en is uitstekend bereikbaar vanuit verschillende vakantieparken in de Provence zoals FranceComfort Vallée de la Ste. Baume of FranceComfort Jardin du Golf.

The charm of Antibes during your holidays in the South of France

A day in Antibes feels like a little break within your holiday in the South of France. The combination of culture, beach, gastronomy and atmosphere makes the town very popular among tourists. The old walls reflect the city’s history, while the port and beaches reflect modern life. Whether you are staying in a holiday villa in the South of France, a luxury villa in Provence – Côte d'Azur or a holiday home near the Mediterranean Sea, Antibes is a place where memories are born.

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