Alpes-Maritimes

In this article, we offer you a comprehensive guide to the places and activities to discover in the Alpes-Maritimes. You’ll explore top destinations such as Nice, Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco, not to mention lesser-known gems like hilltop villages, nature parks, and resorts in ski.

Don't miss out on unforgettable experiences such as hiking, biking, paragliding, canyoning and diving. What's more, we'll share our expert advice with you to help you plan your stay in the Alpes-Maritimes.

Must-sees in the Alpes Maritimes

Once you’ve explored Old Nice, let’s broaden our horizons to discover the other treasures of the Alpes-Maritimes. With its iconic cities, charming villages, and exceptional natural and cultural sites, this region has something for every taste and budget.

Discover five essential places not to be missed.

Nice, capital of the French Riviera

Nice, the flagship city of the Alpes-Maritimes and capital of the ‘French Riviera’ charms visitors with its abundance of attractions and activities. Discover the splendid Baie des Anges along the Promenade des Anglais, explore the flower market on Cours Saleya, visit the Matisse Museum or the majestic Cathedral Visit the Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas and try the specialty socca, a delicious traditional flatbread. An ideal starting point, Nice also has an international airport and an excellent public transportation system.

The Principality of Monaco: luxury and glamour

Monaco, a sovereign state nestled between France and Italy, boasts a casino, the famous Formula 1 Grand Prix, the Prince's Palace and luxurious yachts. This luxury enclave promises iconic visits such as the Oceanographic Museum, the Exotic Garden, the National Museum and the Museum of Napoleonic Memorabilia. Don't miss the changing of the guard at the Palais Princier or a spellbinding show at the Casino de Monte-Carlo.

Cannes: International Film Festival and beaches dream

Cannes shines on the world stage thanks to its International Film Festival in May, where movie stars walk the red carpet at the Palais des Festivals. But beyond the glamour of the festival, Cannes charms visitors with its fine sandy beaches, upscale boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and picturesque hotels. Don’t miss the historic Suquet district, Croix-des-Gardes, the Musée de la Castre, or a day trip to the Lérins Islands.

Antibes and the charm of its old port

Antibes, a city rich in heritage, reveals a charming old harbor filled with sailboats and fishing boats. Stroll through the charming narrow streets of the old town, and explore the Notre-Dame-de-la-Platea Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, and Fort Carré. Don’t miss Marineland, Europe’s largest aquatic park, for an unforgettable encounter with dolphins, orcas, sharks, and sea lions.

Grasse: the world's perfume capital

Grasse, nestled in the hinterland of the Alpes-Maritimes region and known for its colorful fields of flowers, is recognized worldwide as the perfume capital. This city is famous for its perfume factories and museums, living testaments to the richness of this art form.

The Fragonard Perfume Factory, the International Perfume Museum, the Museum of Art and History of Provence, and the Maritime Museum are just some of the treasures Grasse has to offer its visitors. Stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, discover its charming houses, refreshing fountains, lush gardens, and majestic cathedral for an unforgettable experience.

The hidden treasures of the Alpes Maritimes

Beyond its famous towns and idyllic beaches, the Alpes-Maritimes region is home to lesser-known gems that are perfect for lovers of nature, history, and authenticity.

In this section, discover four little-known sites that will captivate you with their beauty and richness.

The hilltop villages of the hinterland

The hinterland of the Alpes-Maritimes is home to hilltop villages offering spectacular views of the mountainand the sea. These villages, where the spirit of the Middle Ages still lingers, are a treasure of the’architecture and culture. Among the wonders to discover there are: churches Romanesque churches, fortresses, art museums, and botanical gardens.

The villages of Sainte-Agnès, Gourdon, Peille and Eze are among the most enchanting.

La Vallée des Merveilles: a unique prehistoric site

Located in the Mercantour Mountains, at an elevation of over 2,000 meters, the Vallée des Merveilles is famous for its Bronze Age rock engravings. Depicting human, animal, and symbolic figures, these engravings are a valuable record of prehistory and are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Access to the site is via marked hiking trails that pass through landscapes breathtaking.

The Mercantour National Park and its unforgettable hikes

Covering more than 60,000 hectares, Mercantour National Park is a sanctuary of biodiversity, home to an exceptional variety of plants and animals, including rare species such as the wolf, the ibex, and the golden eagle. The park offers countless opportunities to immerse yourself in nature, with activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and canyoning, while also allowing you to explore its rich cultural heritage.

The Côte d'Azur ridge route

Connecting Cassis to La Ciotat via the Calanques mountain range, the Route des Crêtes offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, the cliffs, and the surrounding islands. Whether by car, bike, or on foot, this route is a must for nature and adventure lovers, with exceptional sites like Cap Canaille, the Calanque d’En-Vau, and the Parc du Mugel to explore.

Activities and experiences not to be missed

If you’re planning a trip to the Alpes-Maritimes, you can look forward to a wide variety of enchanting activities. Let us guide you through our selection of five must-see attractions for a well-rounded experience, whether you’re a fan of sports, culture, or gastronomy, or simply in search of new discoveries.

Water sports on the Riviera

The famous French Riviera, with its pleasant climate and crystal-clear waters, is the ultimate playground for water sports enthusiasts. Set sail for adventures in sailing, kayakin paddle, on a jet ski, water skiing, riding a towable tube, or exploring the depths while scuba diving. Discover a unique perspective on the coastline and its breathtaking beauty, and be sure to enjoy an eco-friendly getaway aboard a solar-powered boat.

Hiking and Winter Sports in the Mercantour

The Mercantour National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and winter sports enthusiasts. Its hiking trails offer exceptional views and breathtaking alpine landscapes, complemented by lakes, waterfalls, and majestic forests. Its rich biodiversity is full of discoveries, such as the Vallée des Merveilles. For winter sports enthusiasts, Auron, Isola 2000, Valberg, and La Colmiane offer superb skiing and snowboarding trails, as well as snowshoeing opportunities. It’s a must-visit destination for reconnecting with nature.

Festivals and cultural events

The Alpes-Maritimes region comes alive with its many cultural events and world-class festivals. Join in the fun at the Cannes International Film Festival, savor the nuances of jazz at the Juan Jazz Festival, let yourself be swept away by the festive atmosphere of the Nice Carnival, and don’t miss the Lemon Festival in Menton, a colorful celebration that pays tribute to the lemon. These events are the perfect opportunities to share in the joy and camaraderie.

Tasting of local cuisine and regional specialities

Delicacies and flavors come together in the Alpes-Maritimes, a gourmet destination par excellence. Treat yourself to socca, pissaladière, salade niçoise, and so many other specialties that will delight your taste buds. Discover iconic local products such as goat cheese, honey, and olive oil. Don’t miss Grasse, the perfume capital, where you’ll have the chance to create your own fragrance.

Luxury shopping in Monaco and Cannes

The Alpes-Maritimes embody elegance and chic, offering fabulous opportunities for luxury shopping in Monaco and Cannes. Browse the haute couture boutiques, jewelry stores, leather goods shops, and cosmetics stores to discover high-end, prestigious items. You can also admire the dazzling window displays at department stores such as Printemps, Galeries Lafayette, and Le Bon Marché.

And don't miss the sales periods, which take place twice a year, in January and July, to take advantage of attractive discounts.

Alpes Maritimes - Conclusion

It is clear that the Alpes-Maritimes offer a variety of attractions for all tastes. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, sports, fine dining, or luxury, this department has something to satisfy every visitor. From famous cities like Nice, Monaco, Cannes, and Antibes to lesser-known gems such as the hilltop villages, the Vallée des Merveilles, and the Mercantour National Park, there is a vast array of sites to explore.

The range of activities is just as impressive, with options ranging from water sports to hiking, as well as festivals, sampling local specialties, and luxury shopping. The Alpes-Maritimes is an exceptional vacation destination that promises unforgettable memories.

Don't delay, plan your trip to the Alpes-Maritimes now and discover the richness and diversity of this enchanting département. You won't be disappointed!

Alpes Maritimes - FAQ

What is the number of the Alpes-Maritimes department?

The area code for the Alpes-Maritimes department is 06. Located in southeastern France, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, its prefecture is the city of Nice.

What is the main town in the Alpes Maritimes?

Nice, the prefecture of the département, is the main city of the Alpes-Maritimes. It is the seventh most populous city in France, with a population of 348,085 in 2021.

What is the Alpes-Maritimes zone?

The Alpes-Maritimes, a French department located in the southeastern part of the country near the Italian border and along the Mediterranean Sea, is divided into three distinct areas: the major mountain ranges in the north, which feature the department’s highest peaks; the Grasse and Estéron Pre-Alps, characterized by imposing gorges; and to the east, the Baous mountain range.

Where do the Alpes Maritimes begin?

The Alpes-Maritimes department begins at the French-Italian border, between the Larche and Tende mountain passes, and stretches to the Mediterranean Sea, between the Paillon and Roya estuaries.