11 Less Touristy Things to Do
| Name | Appeal | Type | Visit | Cost | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | ➡️ St. Jean-Cap-Ferrat | ★★★☆☆ | Headland | - | - |
| 02 | ➡️ Villefranche-sur-Mer | ★★★☆☆ | Town | - | - |
| 03 | ➡️ Grimaud | ★★★☆☆ | Village | - | - |
| 04 | ➡️ Port Grimaud | ★★★☆☆ | Village | - | - |
| 05 | ➡️ Roquebrune-Cap-Martin | ★★★☆☆ | Village | - | - |
| 06 | ➡️ Gassin | ★★★☆☆ | Village | - | - |
| 07 | Lérins Islands | ★★★☆☆ | 2 Islands | - | - |
| 08 | Hyères Islands | ★★★☆☆ | 3 Islands | - | - |
| 09 | St. Baume Massif | ★★★☆☆ | Hiking ; Biking | Self | Free |
| 10 | Maures Massif | ★★☆☆☆ | Hiking ; Biking | Self | Free |
| 11 | ➡️ Vence | ★★☆☆☆ | Town | - | - |
01. St. Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Overall Appeal ★★★☆☆
St. Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a picturesque headland nestled between Nice and Monaco, celebrated for its lush greenery, serene atmosphere, and stunning coastal views. The peninsula is dotted with grand villas and scenic walking paths, offering a tranquil escape from the busier Riviera towns.
Historically, this area was a humble fishing village until the 19th century, when it attracted European aristocrats and wealthy families. Its rise to fame was solidified by the construction of the opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in the early 20th century.
Key highlights include the villa’s expansive gardens, each designed in a different theme, and the coastal path encircling the peninsula, which offers vistas of the Mediterranean.
02. Villefranche-sur-Mer Town
Overall Appeal ★★★☆☆
Villefranche-sur-Mer is a charming town known for its colorful houses, deep natural harbor, and seaside atmosphere.
Its blend of Italianate architecture and proximity to Nice City makes it a popular stop along the Riviera.
03. Grimaud Village
Overall Appeal ★★★☆☆
Grimaud is a quaint hilltop village offering sweeping views over the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and a medieval atmosphere.
Its winding cobbled streets and stone buildings exude a timeless charm, making it a spot for a leisurely exploration.
04. Port Grimaud Village
Overall Appeal ★★★☆☆
Port Grimaud is a unique waterside village designed in the 1960s to resemble a Provençal fishing town, complete with colorful facades and canals. Often called the “Venice of Provence,” it attracts boating enthusiasts and visitors looking for a picturesque seaside experience.
05. Roquebrune-Cap-Martin Village
Overall Appeal ★★★☆☆
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is a historic village perched on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean. It offers a blend of ancient charm and coastal beauty.
South of the village, the Cap Martin headland features beautiful walking paths and several villas designed by renowned architects.
06. Gassin Village
Overall Appeal ★★★☆☆
Gassin is a picturesque hilltop village known for its panoramic views of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and its maze of narrow streets.
The village retains its historical character with stone houses and flower-filled squares.
07. Lérins Islands
Overall Appeal ★★★☆☆
The Lérins Islands, just off the coast of Cannes, offer a tranquil escape with historic monasteries, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful nature trails. The two main islands, St. Marguerite and St. Honorat, attract visitors seeking peace and history.
The islands’ history is marked by the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask, who was imprisoned on St. Marguerite in the 17th century. St. Honorat has been home to a Cistercian monastery since the 5th century, and monks still produce wine here today.
St. Marguerite
St. Honorat
08. Hyères Islands
Overall Appeal ★★★☆☆
he Hyères Islands, also known as the “Golden Islands,” are a group of three: Porquerolles, Port-Cros, and Île du Levant. Known for their natural beauty, they offer crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and lush vegetation.
Porquerolles is famed for its beaches, while Port-Cros is a paradise for snorkelers. Île du Levant is partially a military zone but is known for its naturist resorts.
Porquerolles
Port-Cros
Levant
09. St. Baume Massif
Appeal ★★★☆☆
Type Hiking ; Biking
Visit Self
Cost Free
Highest Peak 1148 m (3,766 ft) 📍Joug de l’Aigle
The St. Baume Massif is a rugged mountain range known for its dense forests, rocky crests, and rich spiritual heritage.
The massif has been a pilgrimage site since the 5th century, believed to be the retreat of Mary Magdalene. The trails are dotted with chapels and religious markers.
It’s 35 km long (22 mi) and 15 km (9 mi) wide.
10. Maures Massif
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Hiking ; Biking
Visit Self
Cost Free
Highest Peak 776 m (2,546 ft) 📍Signal de la Sauvette
The Maures Massif is a low-lying mountain range stretching along the coast, renowned for its lush green forests.
It’s 55 km long (34 mi) and 15 km (9 mi) wide.
11. Vence Town
Overall Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Vence is a small town nestled in the hills renowned for its medieval charm.
Its history dates back to Roman times, and it became a fortified town in the Middle Ages.
Its old town is filled with charming streets, squares and fountains.
