Just go ahead and picture this: You’ve planned a dream summer getaway to the French Riviera. You step off the plane, expecting glamour and tranquility, only to find yourself battling through swarms of tourists, queuing for everything from museums to macarons. Those beaches are so packed you can barely see the sand and don’t even get started on the prices. Why does everything cost more just because it’s sunny?
It doesn’t even need to be around the sea, but even planning a getaway to the Champagne region in France in the summer is just begging for a nightmare to happen too. Overall, during high tourist season, it’s super busy. Honestly, it’s just way too busy! But why not consider going somewhere, like the French Riviera when no one wants to go there?
People gravitate there during the summer to swim and get a tan, but if you skip those two things, you’re still going to have a great time, plus no chaos either. So, with that all said, here’s why winter is the Riviera’s most underrated season.
Beaches You Don’t Have to Fight For
Summer on the Riviera sounds romantic until you’re elbowing someone for a spot to lay your towel. In winter, the beaches take on a completely different vibe, they’re peaceful, pristine, and practically yours. Now sure, you can’t swim in them, because it’s a little too chilly for swimming, but just getting to look at them can be wonderful too. Plus, the whole surroundings are relaxed too; there are just no crowds, mostly locals, but hardly any tourists. Just about everything is yours, so what’s not to love?
No Sky-High Prices
Now, here’s the thing about winter on the Riviera: luxury suddenly becomes affordable. For example, those impossibly chic hotels with balconies overlooking the sea? They cost a fraction of their summer rates.
Plus, the hotels are most likely going to be empty right now too. One of the only downsides might be the fact that some businesses are closed for the season, but that’s fine, as they’re just tourist traps in the first place (eating where the locals eat means you’re actually getting some good-quality food).
Actually, when it comes to hoping around from town to town, it’s a lot cheaper too during the off-season. Plus, a private driver Nice airport can whisk you from your flight to your destination in total comfort when you’re just landing, and no sky-high price tag is included either.
Comfortable Temperature
While it’s not warm enough for sun dresses and shorts, you most likely won’t need a coat or scarves, as the temperature is pretty nice enough for long sleeves and maybe a light jacket. You won’t have to worry about shivering or sweating (and yes, it’s still pretty sunny).
Experiences Without the Chaos
Want to visit the Prince’s Palace in Monaco or the Picasso Museum in Antibes? Well, in winter, these iconic spots become a dream. For starters, they are still open. But on top of that, there are no queues, no rushing, just you and all the time in the world to soak it up. Besides, if you’re there in December, you even get to see all the festive Christmas decor and markets, what’s not to love there?
