Unveil the beauty of the French Riviera, one road trip at a time!
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure along the sun-kissed coast of the French Riviera? Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a 7-day campervan journey that will take you through some of the most picturesque and charming destinations in southern France. From glittering beaches to quaint villages, this road trip promises an experience like no other. So, fire up your engines, pack your bags, and let’s hit the road!
Day 1: Nice – The Gateway to the French Riviera
Our epic road trip begins in Nice, the capital of the French Riviera. Nice is not just a starting point; it’s a destination in itself. Start your day with a stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, where you can soak in breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Don’t forget to dip your toes in the azure waters or sunbathe on the pebbly beaches.
After enjoying the beach, head to the historic Old Town (Vieux Nice). Wander through narrow, winding streets filled with vibrant markets, charming boutiques, and local cafes. Sample some traditional Niçois dishes like Socca (a chickpea pancake) or Pissaladière (a savory onion tart) at a local bistro.
In the afternoon, drive your campervan to the Colline du Château (Castle Hill) for panoramic views of Nice and the Baie des Anges. This is a fantastic spot for a picnic or simply to admire the sunset.
Where to Stay: Park your campervan at Camping Les Castors, a well-equipped campsite just a short drive from the city center.
Day 2: Cannes – Glitz and Glamour
On day two, our campervan adventure takes us to the glamorous city of Cannes. Famous for its film festival, Cannes is a playground for the rich and famous. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Cannes Film Festival Palace and take a leisurely walk along La Croisette, the city’s waterfront promenade.
If you’re a film buff, the Museum of Cinema is a must-visit. It’s a treasure trove of cinematic history, featuring everything from vintage cameras to movie posters.
Afterwards, head to the Lerins Islands, just off the coast of Cannes. These tranquil islands are a serene escape from the bustling city. You can take a short ferry ride to Île Sainte-Marguerite, famous for its eucalyptus forest and the mysterious Iron Mask prisoner.
Where to Stay: Camping La Roseraie, located on the outskirts of Cannes, offers a peaceful atmosphere with all the amenities you need for your campervan.
Day 3: Saint-Tropez – Beach Vibes and Yachts
Day three takes us to the legendary Saint-Tropez. This picturesque coastal town is known for its stunning beaches, luxury yachts, and vibrant nightlife.
Start your day at Pampelonne Beach, a long stretch of golden sand where you can relax, swim, and people-watch. The beach clubs here are famous for their lively atmosphere and delicious cuisine.
In the afternoon, explore the old town of Saint-Tropez with its charming cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and the iconic Place des Lices, where you can enjoy a game of petanque.
As the sun sets, head to the Vieux Port (Old Port) to witness the glamorous yachts and enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Where to Stay: Campsite Les Mûres is located just a short drive from Saint-Tropez and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Day 4: Marseille – A Taste of Mediterranean Culture
Our next stop is the vibrant port city of Marseille. Known for its diverse culture and delicious cuisine, Marseille offers a different flavor of the French Riviera.
Start your day with a visit to the historic Old Port (Vieux-Port) where you can admire the bustling waterfront and try some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
Afterwards, explore the Le Panier neighborhood, the oldest part of Marseille. This area is filled with colorful streets, artisan shops, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
In the afternoon, take a boat trip to the Calanques, a series of dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise coves. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and hikers.
Where to Stay: Camping de la Sousta is a peaceful campsite located near Marseille, providing a perfect base for exploring the city.
Day 5: Aix-en-Provence – Art and Elegance
Aix-en-Provence, our fifth destination, is a city that exudes elegance and is known for its artistic heritage. It’s a perfect place to immerse yourself in French culture.
Begin your day by strolling through Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined avenue dotted with cafes and fountains. Don’t forget to try the local specialty, calissons, almond-shaped candies.
Visit the Atelier Paul Cézanne, where the famous painter worked, and explore the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral with its stunning architecture.
In the evening, enjoy a glass of wine at one of the many wine bars in the city and savor a Provençal dinner at a traditional bistro.
Where to Stay: Camping Sainte-Victoire is a campsite located on the outskirts of Aix-en-Provence, offering a peaceful atmosphere.
Day 6: Avignon – The City of Popes
Day six takes us to Avignon, a city steeped in history and home to the stunning Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes).
Start your day with a visit to the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the grand halls, chapels, and gardens of this medieval palace.
Afterwards, stroll across the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as the “Pont d’Avignon,” a bridge that partially spans the Rhône River. It’s a fascinating piece of history.
In the afternoon, visit Les Halles, a lively indoor food market where you can sample local delicacies and purchase fresh ingredients for your campervan dinner.
Where to Stay: Camping Bagatelle is conveniently located near Avignon and offers a comfortable spot to rest after a day of exploration.
Day 7: Nîmes – Roman History and Culture
On the final day of our French Riviera campervan adventure, we head to Nîmes, a city that boasts a rich Roman history and some of the best-preserved Roman architecture in Europe.
Start your day by visiting the Roman Amphitheatre, also known as the Arena of Nîmes. This well-preserved amphitheater is still used for events today and offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Rome.
Explore the Maison Carrée, a beautifully preserved Roman temple, and the stunning Jardins de la Fontaine, a park with elegant fountains and lush greenery.
In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the historic city center, with its charming streets and squares filled with cafes and restaurants.
Where to Stay: Camping Mas de Reilhe is a campsite located near Nîmes, providing a tranquil setting for your last night on the road.
Bonus Stops and Tips
While our 7-day itinerary covers the highlights of the French Riviera, there are plenty of bonus stops and tips to enhance your campervan adventure:
- Antibes: Explore the old town of Antibes and visit the Picasso Museum, housed in a 14th-century château.
- Grasse: Discover the world of perfumery in Grasse and visit fragrance factories for a sensory experience.
- Eze: Climb up to the medieval village of Eze and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
- Cassis: Take a detour to Cassis and enjoy a boat tour to the stunning Calanques.
- Gorges du Verdon: If you have extra time, venture inland to witness the breathtaking Gorges du Verdon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Europe.”
Tips for Campervan Travel:
- Plan Ahead: Research campsites and book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Pack Light: Campervans have limited storage space, so pack efficiently.
- Stay Flexible: While it’s great to have an itinerary, allow for spontaneity. You might stumble upon hidden gems along the way.
- Respect the Environment: Practice responsible camping by disposing of waste properly and respecting nature.
- Learn Basic French: While many people in the French Riviera speak English, a few basic French phrases can go a long way.
Conclusion
As our 7-day campervan adventure along the French Riviera comes to an end, you’ll find that this region is a treasure trove of beauty, culture, and history. From the glitz of Cannes to the ancient charm of Nîmes, each destination offers a unique experience that will leave you with lasting memories. So, rev up your campervan and get ready to explore the enchanting French Riviera – where every twist and turn of the road reveals a new adventure.
Note: Please check local travel advisories and regulations before embarking on your campervan journey, as conditions and requirements may change.