39 Expert Tips: Travel the French Riviera with Kids

Are you considering family travel to the French Riviera with kids?

As a mom who has experienced the magic of this breathtaking destination with my little ones, I am thrilled to share all the ins and outs of planning a family trip to this enchanting coastal region.

You might be wondering, “Is it really suitable for kids?” Don’t worry, I had the same questions before embarking on our journey, and now I’m here to guide you through it all.

From the best cities to stay in, to the smoothest ways to get there, we’ve got your biggest questions covered.  I also throw in a few extra tips that helped us on our family holiday to the South of France and throughout Europe.

 So, get ready, and let’s dive into the wonders of the French Riviera with your kiddos in tow

1. How to get to the French Riviera?

• By Plane: The French Riviera is served by several international airports, making air travel a convenient option. The primary airport in the region is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) Nice Côte d’Azur Airport offers numerous flights from major cities around the world. From the airport, you can easily access popular destinations like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco by car, bus, or train. 
• By Train: The French Riviera is well-connected to the national and international rail network. You can take a high-speed train (TGV) to cities like Nice, Cannes, or Antibes from major French cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. The trains are comfortable, and fast, and offer scenic views of the French countryside as you approach the coast.  For reference, it takes about 5 ½ hours by train from Paris to Nice. 
• By Car: If you prefer driving, you can reach the French Riviera by car from various locations in France and neighboring countries. The region is accessible via the A8 motorway, also known as La Provençale. However, keep in mind that traffic can be heavy during peak tourist seasons and parking can be expensive, so plan accordingly.
• By cruise ship: The South of France is an extremely popular place for cruise ships to stop. Popular cruise ports include Cannes, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Monaco. Consider taking a Mediterranean cruise with stops in the Riviera to get a quick taste of the area.

2. Population of The French Riviera

The French Riviera is a densely populated region in southeastern France along the Mediterranean coast.

The total population of the French Riviera is estimated to be around 2 million people.

The largest city in the region is Nice, with a population of approximately 342,000 people.

3. Where is the French Riviera located?

The French Riviera stretches along the Mediterranean coast of southeastern France.

The Southern Alps are to the north and the Mediterranean Sea is to the south.  This provides a stunning contrast of mountainous landscapes and beautiful beaches.

The region is part of the larger Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur administrative region of France and covers a coastline of approximately 71 miles (115 kilometers).

4. What is the weather like in the French Riviera?

You can expect hot, dry summer with temperate, rainy winters in The French Riviera.  

Summers are typically sunny and warm, with temperatures often reaching 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Winters are relatively mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing.  While you won’t find swimming weather every day of the year.  It is beautiful all year round. 

5. Why travel the French Riviera with kids?

The French Riviera attracts millions of visitors every year. What makes traveling here superior to traveling elsewhere in Europe?

Stunning Azur beaches, warm Mediterranean waters, and beautiful beaches provide the perfect place for family fun and relaxation.

The region has plenty of family-friendly activities, from exploring quaint coastal villages to delicious French cuisine that even my picky eaters enjoyed.

The French Riviera is also a treasure trove of cultural wealth, with museums, historic sites, and art galleries to appeal to curious children.

If water sports are your thing, the South of France is the perfect destination for outdoor activities and adrenaline-fueled excursions.

The district is known for its luxury accommodation and shopping options. However, you don’t have to break the bank to stay here.  Window shopping is free and sometimes it’s fun to see how the other side lives.

6. Best Cities to call home base

Nice:

Nice offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities. 

The Promenade des Anglais, a picturesque waterfront promenade, is ideal for leisurely strolls and cycling with kids. 

The city’s well-maintained public parks, such as the Parc Phoenix and Promenade du Paillon, provide excellent spaces for picnics and playtime. 

Cannes:

Known for its glamorous film festival but Cannes has much to offer families as well. 

The sandy beaches along the Boulevard de la Croisette provide safe and enjoyable places for children to build sandcastles and swim. 

Pro tip:  Head to Cannes if you are looking for sandy beaches vs. the more common pebbly beaches found in other areas of the Riviera.

Take a boat trip to Île Sainte-Marguerite, where kids can explore the island’s rich history and enjoy nature walks. 

The Musée de la Castre, set in a medieval castle, is both educational and captivating, offering panoramic views of Cannes from the top.

Antibes:

For a relaxing family vacation, consider Antibes.  The city is less crowded than some of the other cities in the French Riveria and exudes a laid-back charm.

Your kids will love Marineland, the largest marine park in Europe.  At this attraction, your kids can see dolphin and seal shows.

The family-friendly Plage de la Salis is a spacious public beach where your kids can splash all afternoon.  The waters are shallow and perfect for your kids to swim.  

Consider spending the day at one of Antibes’ kid-friendly beach clubs.  These clubs offer private beach loungers and exclusive access to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Riviera. 

Monaco:

Despite its reputation for luxury, Monaco is surprisingly family-friendly.

 Your children can have an interactive experience at the Oceanographic Museum.  An impressive collection of marine life lives here and you can even touch some of the sea creatures. 

For nature lovers, consider a visit to the Jardin Exotique.  Here you will find a beautiful garden filled with exotic plants and succulents.

Check out the Formula 1 starting line.  Known for its famous Formula 1 track, there is so much to see if your little one is into motorsports.  I recommend watching Drive to Survive on Netflix before going.  Trust me on this.

Saint-Tropez:

Although renowned for its upscale lifestyle, Saint-Tropez caters to families with its beautiful beaches and kid-friendly activities. 

Plage des Graniers a small public beach that is a 5-minute walk from the city center, making the proximity a good option for families staying in the area. Here you can rent an umbrella and watch your little ones take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea. 

Don’t forget to visit the Butterfly Museum (La Maison des Papillons) for a chance to learn about the world of butterflies.  There are over 35,000 butterfly specimens that call this place their home. 

Villefranche-sur-Mer

This picturesque city on the French Riviera is a perfect destination that promises an idyllic setting to enjoy time with your family.  The city is absolutely the most charming place we visited in the South of France

The town is relaxed and less crowded compared to its neighboring cities of Nice and Monaco. Slow-paced exploring the area is perfect for families with young children.

Your kids can stroll along the colorful harbor and marvel at the fishing boats, and indulge in delicious local treats at the waterfront cafes. 

You can enjoy the public beach, Plage des Marieniers which is visible from the town center.

For a fun educational experience the Rue Obscure, a medieval passageway that runs underneath the old town. Plus:  It is underground and a good escape from the hot sun.

8. How to beat the Heat

The Riviera can get scorching in the summer, so be prepared! Pack sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing to keep your little ones cool and protected from the sun.

9. Don’t miss beaches:

The French Riviera boasts approximately 71 miles (115 kilometers) of breathtaking coastline along the Mediterranean Sea.

Enjoy family time on the beaches of Promenade des Anglais (Nice), Plage de la Salis (Antibes), or Plage du Midi (Cannes) – all equipped with child-friendly amenities.

Don’t forget water shoes as many of the beaches are rocky or covered with pebbles that can hurt your feet.

11. Safety on the Beach

Keep an eye on your children while they play on the beach, and make sure they stay within safe swimming areas.

Many of the area beaches do have lifeguards on duty during the summer months so check ahead. 

Again, I recommend you bring water shoes as some of the beaches are rocky. 

12. Renting Beach Gear

Save luggage space by renting beach gear like umbrellas and beach toys at the shore.

Families and adventurers can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, water skiing, and sailing.

13. Water Activities

Some beaches offer water sports like paddleboarding and snorkeling. 

Check for age and safety restrictions before participating with your kids.

You can also rent jet skis if your family is into watercraft excursions.

14. Take your kids on a picnic by the Sea

Pack a picnic basket with fresh produce from local markets and enjoy a beachside meal with your family.

We enjoy shopping for our picnic in a local grocery store.  Its fun to see what grocery stores in other countries look like.  

It’s also fun to sample local products.  We use google maps to find the closest grocery store. 

17. What are public bathrooms like in the Riviera?

Public restrooms are widely available, but some may require a small fee. Carry tissues and hand sanitizer, as not all restrooms may have these amenities.

When potty training toddlers, keep coins handy to pay for restrooms in a pinch.

18. Should you bring a stroller to the French Riviera?

Most cities on the Riviera are stroller-friendly, especially the popular tourist areas and promenades.

 However, some older parts may have cobblestone streets, so consider a stroller designed for all-terrain use or consider baby-wearing using a baby carrier. 

19. Baby Changing Areas

Major towns and attractions provide baby-changing facilities, often located in shopping centers, museums, and public restrooms. 

There are some areas, however,  where I had to use a makeshift bench or alcove for a quick diaper change. Carry disposable changing pads for emergencies.

20. Types of Public Transportation

The Riviera offers excellent public transportation options for families. Buses and trains connect major cities, making it easy to explore without the hassle of driving.

Consider downloading the SNCF app for train times and buying tickets. 

In Nice, there is an extensive tram system that we used to get around the city.   

21. Navigating Public Transportation with Kids

Children under the age of four typically travel free on buses and trains, while older kids may get discounted fares.

 Prepare for stroller space, as some public transport might get crowded.  We had no problem taking the stroller on and off the trains.  This may vary depending on the time of day. 

My kids loved riding on the trains and trams and it was definitely a highlight for them.

22. Consider Renting a Car

If you plan to explore smaller towns or venture into the countryside, consider renting a car with a child seat for convenience.

As public transportation between the bigger cities is plentiful, I would only do this if you are exploring the countryside. 

24. Local Delicacies to Try

Introduce your children to local delights like Socca (chickpea pancake), Ratatouille, and fougasse(olive oil-rich flatbread) and authentic French pastries for a memorable culinary experience.

My kids loved the socca but were a little more hesitant with the ratatouille. It’s okay to find food they are more familiar with but try to expose them to a few local dishes if possible. 

25. What Language do they speak in the French Riviera?

Most residents will speak French (we are in France after all). Italy is also very popular.

While English is spoken in most tourist areas, learning a few basic French phrases can be helpful and show respect for the local culture.

Your kids will love telling the locals Bonjour!

28. Enjoying Local Festivals

Check the local calendar for festivals that might be happening during your visit, especially Nice Carnival and  Menton Lemon Festival

The Cannes Film Festival, held annually in May, is one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals, attracting celebrities and filmmakers from around the globe

Monaco also hosts the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix, a Formula One race held annually.

29. Excursions to Nearby Islands

Consider day trips to the nearby islands of Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat, offering scenic beauty and family-friendly adventures.

30. Booking Family Accommodations

Choose family-friendly hotels or apartments with amenities like pools, kids’ clubs, and play areas for a comfortable stay.

Consider an Airbnb for laundry facilities and a separate bedroom for children to sleep and nap in. 

31. Exploring Old Towns

Wander through the charming old towns of Antibes, Eze, and Vieux Nice for a glimpse into the region’s history and culture.

Get lost in the narrow streets of each city center. Grab a drink at one of the local cafes and take in the atmosphere.

32. Embrace Local Art and Culture

Introduce your children to art by visiting museums like Musée Matisse or Fondation Maeght, where they can engage with creativity.

34. Day Trips to Perfume Factories

Take your kids on a fascinating tour of a perfume factory to learn about the art of fragrance making.

There are perfumeries that have specific perfume-making workshops targeted at kids in Nice.  

35. Know How to plan around  Nap Times

Plan your day to accommodate your child’s nap schedule, ensuring they stay refreshed and happy throughout the trip.

Allow them to nap in the stroller while you go to museums.

The quiet area will allow them to catch some much-needed slumber, while you can enjoy the exhibits.

36. Child Identification

Have identification for your child, such as a card with your contact details, in case you get separated in crowded areas.

37. Check out Kid-Friendly Gardens

Visit delightful gardens like Jardin Albert I (Nice) or Jardin Exotique (Monaco) for a tranquil escape amidst lush greenery.

38. Keep Hydrated

Carry water bottles and snacks to keep your little ones hydrated and energized during your adventures.

There is nothing worse (or scary) than heat exhaustion on vacation with children

39. Let Your Kids Capture Memories

Encourage your children to take photos and create their own travel memories with disposable cameras or kid-friendly cameras.