Driving Along the Cote d'Azur

Often touted as one of the most beautiful drives in the world, the Cote d'Azur offers legendary views, sun-drenched beaches and plenty of opportunities for stressed-out travelers to unwind. Spanning from Toulon to Menton on the Italian border, this glamorous stretch of coastline is a road tripper's paradise. From the subtle charms of Nice to the dazzling lure of St. Tropez, the French Riviera has been captivating visitors for years. The following list is only a small sample of the jewels you will find nestled along the Cote d'Azur, but these highlights are certainly some of the most enchanting.

Radiant Views

Old-world charm is still very much alive in Cannes. A quaint village atmosphere will surround you as you begin to climb the streets of Le Suquet, ascending cobbled lanes and meandering stairways, passing pastel townhouses outfitted with weather-worn lanterns on your way to the top of the port. Gaze down at the serene bay below, making note of the local merchants pleasantly going about their business, and then start the fascinating journey back down to the ground level of the old quarter. Drive your rental car to Peillon, a stunning perched village appearing to be clinging to the side of a rocky spur situated among fragrant olives and pines. The incredible views seem to go on forever, and if you're looking to experience the airy bohemian vibe that put the Cote d'Azur on the map, look no further than Antibes. A historic locale that has maintained much of its original character, Antibes has also managed to progress with the times and has blossomed into a vibrant yachting community.

Postcard-Worthy Beaches

Visitors flocking to the French Riviera during the spring and summer months can look forward to afternoons spent sprawled out on beach towels, partaking in snorkeling excursions and leisurely dips in sea as they wish, while fall and winter travelers will be able to embark on exhilarating boat trips, gaining access to some of the planet's most pristine islands. Nestled approximately halfway between Nice and Marseille, you'll find Plage de l'Amanarre in Hyeres. This beach runs from the coast to a breezy peninsula town called Giens, which is a particularly favorable destination for kite surfers and wind surfers. One of the most famous beaches along the Cote d'Azur stretches along the Boulevard de la Croisette, located just east of the Palais des Festivals, where the Cannes International Film Festival is hosted each year.

Culinary Diversity

An intriguing melting pot of culinary diversity, dining throughout the French Riviera goes far beyond the quintessential options you might expect, presenting an array of opportunities to taste dishes from chefs who are constantly looking beyond local horizons for inspiration. Tucked away in shady lanes behind the main terraces, you will find some of the Cote d'Azur's best kept bistro secrets. These atmospheric eateries serve up some of the freshest culinary creations in the Mediterranean, and offer a chance to relax, recharge and reflect. Wine connoisseurs will appreciate embarking an afternoon tasting in Provence, indulging in an assortment of wines, cheeses, olive oils and other region-exclusive delicacies. For the best in fine-dining options, head to Monte Carlo, where opulent decor of the dining rooms are only outdone by astounding Riviera sunsets. With an array of glamorous restaurants, beach-front cafes and charming hidden bistros, dining in the French Riviera is a truly unique experience.

Artistic Heritage

Inspired by gem-like waters and skies, the myriad of painters who settled along the French Riviera over the years were certainly onto something. See the world-famous creations of these artists in museums scattered throughout the region. Visit the former home-turned-museum of Pablo Picasso in Antibes, where you will be able to behold hundreds of his paintings, ceramics and other designs. In Nice, there's the Musee Matisse, housing an extensive collection the artist and his heirs left to the city. The Cote d'Azur's impressive selection of art is further accented by its remarkable architectural offerings, all of which are steeped in culture and an expansive history. The beauty of the Cote d'Azur has inspired some of the greatest artistic works of all time like Picasso's Night Fishing at Antibes.

Unrivaled Style

Brimming with marinas full of yachts and sides streets practically overflowing with Ferraris, you will be met with jaw-dropping style around every bend and turn in the Cote d'Azur. If you're looking to blend in while driving through the French Riviera, Auto Europe has the perfect solution: arrange a luxury car rental. Pull up to the glitzy Monte Carlo Casino in a sleek Maserati Quattroporte, hug the curves in the road on your way to Marseille behind the wheel of a Lamborghini Aventador, or maneuver through the streets of St. Tropez in a Ferrari 458 Italia Spider. In a land immortalized by world-renowned artists, famous photographers and iconic movie stars, it seems as though the possibilities for your vacation in the Cote d'Azur are only limited by your imagination.

As a car rental broker, Auto Europe works behind the scenes to bring you the best prices for an array of rental car suppliers, which are typically even better than prices offered individually by each supplier. By leveraging our relationships with these car rental agencies, we are able to negotiate the guaranteed best rates for our clients. Renting a car in the French Riviera is made simple with Auto Europe's secure, three-step booking engine. There are convenient pick-up locations throughout the Cote d'Azur, so whether you're starting in Cassis, Bandol, Monaco, or anywhere in between, you're able to collect the rental car that will best accent your vacation plans. Make your reservation online today, or contact one of our travel experts toll-free at 1-888-223-5555.