French Riviera charter itinerary must-see spots & hidden gems

7 day French Riviera yacht charter itinerary

Welcome to the French Riviera, where azure waters, sunlit beaches, and a rich cultural heritage come together to create an enchanting experience.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, a 7 day yacht charter in the French Riviera is the perfect choice. Explore hidden gems, indulge in luxury, and immerse yourself in the region’s culture and natural beauty.

Why choose a yacht charter in the French Riviera?

A yacht charter in the French Riviera offers a world of possibilities. In addition to its breathtaking sandy beaches (Antibes, Juan les Pins, Pamelonne and so many hidden gems…), and sheltered cruising areas protected from strong winds and rough seas, the French Riviera is also a haven of historical landmarks and gastronomic delights.

The allure of the French Riviera lies not only in its glamorous reputation but also in its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and outstanding gastronomy. By choosing a yacht charter, you can discover the true essence of this remarkable destination in a way that is unparalleled.

1. Revisiting the history and cultural heritage

The French Riviera is steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage. From magnificent monuments to charming villages, such as Eze Village, the old town in Antibes, and Vence in the hinterland, the region offers a plethora of attractions that transport you back in time.

Take a stroll through Le Suquet in Cannes, where history meets panoramic splendor. As you climb the ancient steps to this historic neighborhood, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views over the old port and a glimpse into the region’s past.

2. Savoring the French Riviera: a visual culinary journey

The French Riviera is renowned for its gastronomic delights, offering a wide variety of traditional dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.

Indulge in the flavors of ratatouille, a traditional French Provençal stewed vegetable dish originating in Nice, or savor a hearty bowl of bouillabaisse, a fish stew from Marseille.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try barbajuan in Monaco or socca in Nice, the traditional chickpea pancake from Nice, or sample the region’s exquisite olive oil and rosé wines (Minuty, domaine d’Ott, Maraval…).

The culinary experiences in the French Riviera are a testament to the vibrant cultural exchange that has shaped the region’s cuisine over the centuries.

3. Nature’s bounty: fauna and flora of the French Riviera

The French Riviera is not only blessed with picturesque coastlines but also boasts a diverse Mediterranean flora. Explore the vibrant spectrum of plant life, from wildflowers and aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary to towering trees.

Marvel at the radiant yellow blossoms of the mimosa trees in the Esterel hills or admire the resilience of maritime and stone pines on the Lerins Islands. The French Riviera’s flora is a testament to the region’s natural – and fragile – beauty and adds to its scenic vistas.

Unveiling a vibrant spectacle beneath the azure waves, the French Riviera also teems with subaquatic life. Port-Cros, a marine sanctuary, cradles sizable groupers and even whales amidst its clear depths. Beyond the shorelines, dolphins frequently grace the Bay of Cannes, delighting children with their playful antics and captivating grace.

A suggestion for your 7 day French Riviera charter itinerary

Now that you’ve glimpsed the enchanting beauty and cultural heritage of the French Riviera, it’s time to embark on a 7 day yacht charter that will immerse you in the region’s charms.

Our carefully crafted itinerary can of course be customised to suit your preferences and needs, but it ensures that you make the most of your time in this coastal paradise. Be flexible and prepared for potential surprises along the way as the sea and weather can affect your journey, adding an element of adventure.

From the glamour of Cannes to the charm of St Tropez and the grandeur of Monaco, each port – and anchorage – offers a unique facet of the Riviera’s allure. More than just a cruise, it’s an extraordinary encounter with luxury, culture and natural beauty.

Day 1 – St-Laurent du Var (Nice airport) – Monaco

Monaco by night with view over Port Hercule and the Palais princier

Distance: 17 Nm (19.5 miles, 31km)

Your journey begins as you’re collected by your yacht tender from St-Laurent du Var/Nice Airport.

Take this time to familiarize yourself with your crew and settle into your home for the week ahead.
Anchor in the majestic bay of Villefranche sur Mer and enjoy a swim or disembark in the tiny port of Villefranche sur Mer for a taste of picturesque charm. Explore the labyrinthine streets, vibrant colors of the houses, and panoramic views over the large bay of Villefranche sur Mer.

Other attractions & activities

• Visit the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco: its huge aquarium houses more than 6,000 specimens. Unfortunately, the Monaco Exotic Garden will be closed in 2023.
• Try the succulent barbajuans, a fried chard-filled ravioli (A. Roca)
• Enjoy a drink at la Rascasse or Buddha Bar Monte Carlo.
• Take a taxi to the Place du Casino and soak up the sophisticated atmosphere of the Principality…or try your luck at the casino.

Hidden gem

• Les Perles de Monaco (Fontvieille) : immerse yourself in an authentic ambiance while seated on wooden benches, and uncover a seafood restaurant below Monaco’s Prince’s Palace. Taste the flavors of Brittany as you savor their locally grown oysters, cultivated just offshore from Monaco’s rock.
• Visit the secret beach of Crique des Pêcheurs

Night in Monaco – Port Hercule

Day 2 – Monaco – Nice

Nice with view over the Promenade des Anglais and old town.

Distance: 15 Nm (17 miles, 27 km)

On your way to the port of Nice, drop anchor in the bay of Beaulieu sur Mer for a glorious session of water toys: try the Jetlev, if you have not already done so, or play with a Seabob. Discover the ancient Greek Revival style villa, Villa Kerylos, and indulge in the atmosphere of the small port of St-Jean de Cap Ferrat.

In Nice, if it’s not too late, take a walk to the Tour Belanda for a panoramic view of the old town and the Bay of Angels (if you don’t want to climb, there’s a free lift that will take you about 75 per cent of the way)

Other attractions & activities

• Visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, commanding splendid views over Villefranche and Beaulieu bays. The villa is encircled by nine thematic gardens: Florentine, Spanish, French formal, exotic, stone, Japanese, rose, Provençal, and Sevres, each offering a unique aesthetic experience.
• Explore the small port of St-Jean de Cap Ferrat, enjoy a drink at one of the bars overlooking the harbour.
• Whether your preference is for a Mediterranean-themed bar, or enjoying tantalizing cocktails to the accompaniment of live music, Nice offers a wealth of enticing locations to enjoy a beverage.
  For a more classic experience, head to the bar of plunge into the Old Town, where its crowded streets are a combination of Italian and French architecture.

Hidden gem

• Sip a cocktail in the bar of the Negresco (Nice, Promenade des Anglais): with authentic walnut woodwork dating from 1913 and a remarkable tapestry painted in 1683, this historic bar offers a warm setting for a drink. As night falls, the atmosphere changes with the pulse of jazz, pop and soul. It’s a haven where subtlety is key and sophistication reigns supreme.

Safety tip

• The old town of Nice, with its vibrant history and charm, is generally safe for travellers. As in any tourist area, standard precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings secure should be taken, especially late at night…

Night in the port of Nice

Day 3 – Nice – Antibes

Antibes: megayacht docked at the IYCA in port Vauban

Distance: 12 Nm (13.8 miles, 22 km)

Explore the Cap d’Antibes by kayak (Bay of Milliardaires) or stroll along the coastline, enjoying breathtaking sea views, scenic walks and historic sites such as Villa Eilenroc, an extraordinary residence that epitomises the luxury and opulence of the Belle Epoque.

Take time to visit Port Vauban and stroll through the old town of Antibes, with its cobbled streets and stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Other attractions & activities

• Visit the Picasso museum: art lovers shouldn’t miss the Musée Picasso, located in the old Grimaldi castle. This museum has a collection of works by Pablo Picasso (drawings, sculptures, paintings and ceramics), as well as pieces by contemporaries such as Nicolas de Staël, Germaine Richier and Joan Miro.
• Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, one of the world’s most prestigious hotels: be part of the legence and sip a cocktail at the Eden Roc Bar
  Casual attire allowed during the day. In the evening, a proper dress code is requested. Men are requested to wear long or short sleeve shirt, long trousers and closed shoes.

Hidden gem

• Rediscover the “green witch” at the tiny Absinthe Bar in Antibes, live music.

• Enjoy a drink at the Art Deco spirit Fitzgerald Bar at the Hôtel Belles Rives (Juan les Pins) which belongs to a very exclusive group of historic and heritage cafés in Europe.

Night in Antibes – Port Vauban

Day 4 – Antibes – Cannes

Cannes: magnificent pines near Suquet church

Distance: 17 Nm (19.5 miles, 31km) approx.

Accessible by yacht tender, the Lerins Islands are a must-visit, known for their natural beauty and fascinating history. Explore the Iron Mask prison on Ste-Marguerite Island, shrouded in mystery, and discover the active Abbaye de Lérins on St-Honorat Island, where history and spirituality intertwine.

Visit Le Suquet, the historic heart of Cannes, with its cobblestone streets, charming lanes, glorious pine trees, and stunning architecture. Explore the renovated pedestrian street with a wide range of restaurants and bars.

Other attractions & activities

• Try a succulent pizza in Cannes (pizza Cresci), try italian ice-creams by Niva
  Best 2020/2021/2022 Italian ice-creams
• A must for the child: snorkelling around the underwater museum between the Lerins Islands.
• Enjoy a drink at the rejuvenated Carlton Hotel and experience its newly landscaped gardens.
• Have a drink with a view at Canopy Hilton (400sq. m. rooftop overlooking the old port of Cannes.

Hidden gem

• Enjoy a local restaurant at Place Bellevue: from the old port of Cannes, take a taxi to Le Cannet (10 minutes).

Safety tip

• The Croisette and heart of Cannes (“carré d’or”) are generally safe for travellers. As in any tourist area, standard precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings secure should be taken, especially late at night…

Night in Cannes – old Port or Port Canto

Day 5 – Cannes – St-Tropez

St-Tropez: traditional Riva luxury day boats in the port.

Distance: 27 Nm (31 miles, 50km) approx.

St-Tropez, a sparkling gem on the French Riviera, awaits you with its azure waters, sandy beaches, and iconic pastel traditional houses.

Spend the day at one of the beach clubs on Pampelonne beach, visit the Annonciade Museum’s rich collection of post-impressionist paintings, or simply soak up the atmosphere at Café Senequier.

Don’t miss the opportunity to try a tarte tropézienne, a local delicacy.

Other attractions & activities

• Beach Club Experience: fancy a cocktail with your feet in the sand?
  Ask your crew to drop you off on the beach at Pampelonne by yacht tender for a glorious afternoon at Club 55, Nikki Beach or Bagatelle or cabane Bambou.
• Visit the Annonciade museum: discover a rich collection of post-impressionist paintings (Matisse, Signac, Bonnard)
• Shop till you drop: Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Miu Miu, Louboutin…

Hidden gems

• Explore the enchanting area of Héraclée Beach (La Croix Valmer).
• Discover a local vineyard such as Chateau Minuty

Local insight
Although technically in Ramatuelle, the glamorous Pampelonne beach is often considered part of St Tropez due to popular perception.

Night in St-Tropez– old Port of St-Tropez

Day 6 – St-Tropez – Porquerolles, Port-Cros

Distance: 35 Nm (39 miles, 62km) approx.

Embark on a voyage to the Iles d’Or, a group of islands (Port-Cros, ile du Levant and Porquerolles) that offer stunning natural beauty and tranquility.

Levant Island invites you to embrace nature in its designated naturist area.
Porquerolles is the largest of the 3 islands and boasts beautiful sandy beaches and unspoilt turquoise waters.
Heart of the National Park created in 1963, the wildest and best preserved of the Golden Isles (Port-Cros) is made for hiking. Port-Cros eagerly awaits you with its car-free and bike-free ambiance, offering an idyllic setting for hiking enthusiasts. but it is also a true paradise for those seeking thrilling underwater adventures.

Other attractions & activities

• A visit to Fort Saint Agathe for a breathtaking view – Porquerolles
• Hire an electric bike on the island of Porquerolles to explore its 7 x 2.5 km and make your way to Notre-Dame beach (2015 Best European Beach Award), which offers a more tranquil atmosphere than Argent beach.
• Enjoy a lunch at Mas du Langoustier, gastronomic restaurant
  Book a table well in advance

Night at anchor

• Limited and higly regulated anchorage: 5 buoys for yachts between 15m and 30m maximum.

Hidden gem

• Visit to Domaine La Courtade, a local winery on the island of Porqueroles

Safety tips

• No smoking islands
• Port Cros: no ATM, no car, no bike and kick scooter allowed
• Do not pick the flowers
• Wheelchair access: Argent beach

Day 7 – Porquerolles – St-Laurent du Var (Nice airport)

Esterel coast: secret rocky inlet along the Esterel coast

Distance: 33-38 Nm (miles) approx.

As your yacht charter comes to an end, take the opportunity to explore the Esterel coast on your way back to St-Laurent du Var. Discover the hidden rocky coves, such as the Calanque des Anglais, accessible only by tender, or the beach of la Baumette in the Bay of Agay.

Disembarkation in St-Laurent du Var and transfert to the airport

Choose the perfect yacht for your French Riviera charter

When selecting a yacht for your French Riviera charter, it’s essential to consider your preferences and requirements. However, an 80/100ft displacement or semi-displacement yacht provides the perfect balance of comfort and exploration. Alternatively, if you prefer speed and outdoor living space, a sports yacht may be more suitable.

A motor yacht with gyroscopic stabilizers ensures comfort at sea, while a skilled crew provides tiptop service throughout your journey. Choose a yacht that offers the capacity and amenities that suit your needs, whether you’re traveling with a group of friends, a large family or just enjoying a romantic getaway.
The French Riviera offers a wide range of yacht options, each providing a unique and unforgettable experience.

Our advice: opt for a displacement yacht such as the Custom Line Navetta 86ft or similar.

French Riviera: how much does it cost to charter a yacht ?

Yacht charter costs can vary significantly depending on various factors (seasonality, yacht pedigree, popular location…): more information about the cost to charter a yacht.

Popular yachting destinations such as the Mediterranean (Frenhc Riviera, Corsica, Amalfi coast… generally have higher rates, especially during the peak season (typically June to October for the Mediterranean).
Conversely, off-peak seasons or less popular locations offer more affordable charter rates.

Average weekly rates for French Riviera yacht charter

Yacht type	Gross Rate/week (2023)
Sailing yacht (60ft)	20/25k€ + VAT + expenses
Motor yacht (100ft)	50/100k€ + VAT + expenses
Sailing catamaran (75ft)	from 60k€ + VAT + expenses
Superyacht (130ft+)	from 150k€ + VAT + expenses

Further yacht charter resources

• How to maximize your charter experience ?
• How to find the best yacht charter deals ?

Best time for a French Riviera charter

The best time for a French Riviera charter extends from late spring to early autumn, offering favorable weather and a bustling atmosphere. June and September are less crowded than July and August, providing excellent charter opportunities.

It’s a time when every corner is still buzzing with activity – bars, gourmet restaurants, beach clubs and other summer amenities keep their doors wide open, ready to enhance your unique yacht charter experience.

French Riviera climate

The sea temperature is just perfect from June to end September, enticing you to plunge in and explore the deep, and try out your yacht’s water toys.

French Riviera weather average

The French Riviera, revered for its mild winters and dry summers, offers a Mediterranean climate with over 300 sunny days annually. Recently, summers appear to have intensified, perhaps reflecting wider patterns of climate change. Nevertheless, its climatic harmony is ideal for charterers seeking luxury and comfort, making the Riviera a premier destination for a unique charter experience.

French Riviera charter: essential guides & tips

To make the most of your French Riviera yacht charter, we recommend exploring the region’s gourmet delights, unforgettable beaches, perfect spots for a relaxing drink, and top beach clubs.

1. Gourmet delights: top Riviera restaurants

Check our article: Best French Riviera restaurants

2. The Riviera’s Best: unforgettable beaches

Check our article: Best 10 beaches of the French Riviera

3. Sip with a view: perfect spots for a relaxing drink

Check our article: Best French Riviera terraces with a view

4. Fun in the sun: the Riviera’s top beach clubs

Check our article: Best French Riviera beach clubs

A 7 day yacht charter in the French Riviera is an unparalleled experience that combines luxury, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re revisiting the region’s history and cultural heritage, savoring its culinary delights, or exploring its diverse fauna and flora, the French Riviera has something to offer every charterer. With careful planning, a knowledgeable crew, and a well-crafted itinerary, your French Riviera yacht charter promises to be an unforgettable journey of discovery.

French Riviera resources

• French Riviera map & marine distances
• Oceanographic Museum – Monaco
• Villa Kerylos – Beaulieu sur Mer
• Villa Ephrussi – St-Jean Cap Ferrat
• Bar of the Negresco – Nice
• Picasso Museum – Antibes
• Lerins islands abbaye – Cannes
• Le Suquet – Cannes
• Local wine tour – St-Tropez
• Côte d’Azur, mythique & légendaire – video, Arte

French Riviera book suggestions

• Plages vues du ciel – French Riviera – Gilletta – Nice Matin
• Plages vues du ciel – Corsica – Gilletta – Corse Matin
• Book selection about the French Riviera: history, food recipes…

Disclaimer: the information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, we cannot guarantee its completeness or correctness. Charterers are advised to conduct their own research and adhere to any local regulations and guidelines.

Sources:
* Ferretti yachts, Custom Line Navetta 86ft
* Charter-deal: find the best yacht charter deals on the French Riviera
* Weather Atlas
* Alternative Monaco: 5 unusual things to do - Wanderlust
* Golden islands official website