The region of
Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur is commonly known as the French
Riviera. It is on the Italian border and the Mediterranean Sea
coastline. It is also bounded by the Principality of Monaco.
The region is a major tourist attraction because of the warm
weather, beaches, yacht clubs, and the many celebrities who
visit.
Built over a hot springs,
Aix-en-Provence is located on a plain about a
mile from the right bank of the river Arc. The town is divided
into two sections. The old town has irregular streets and
features mansions dating from the 16th through the 18th
centuries. The major thoroughfare of the more modern town is
lined with trees and bordered by mansions and fountains. The
main attractions of the city include its many fountains, the
Cathedral of the Holy Savior, and a famous brasserie, Deux
Garcons built in 1792.
The city features two musical festivals each
year. One is devoted to opera and the other coincides with the
national music festival. There are several museums and
galleries. One of particular interest is the L'atelier Cezanne
on the outskirts of the city. It is built around the studio of
the artist Paul Cezanne.
The resort town of Antibes is located between
Cannes and Nice. Beaches and night life are found in the
Juan-les-Pins area. One of the outstanding attractions is the Picasso Museum. Pablo
Picasso visited the area and was invited to stay at the
old castle of Antibes. He stayed for six months and while
there completed a number of works including paintings,
drawings, ceramics, tapestries, and so on. When he left,
he left all of his work which is now on exhibition.
There are a number of beaches in the area. The
town is on the Mediterranean coast. Many of the beaches are
private but if you rent a mattress for the day, you will be
allowed to stay. The private beaches also have their own
restaurants. The main public beach is La Salis.
Antibes has retained much of its historic
character and lifestyle as a fishing village. It offers various
types of cultural activities including the Juan-les-Pins Jazz
Festival. There are a number of casinos and outdoor concerts
and fireworks are special attractions in the summer.
Probably the best-known city on the French
Riviera is Cannes. It is famous for its many
celebrity visitors, stylish hotels, and beaches. It is the home
of the annual Cannes Film Festival. There are a number of other
attractions in the city to catch your attention. There are, of
course, casinos but also museums and parks. There is a boat
tour to the Lerins Islands. There are many restaurants and bars
and the cuisine is excellent.
The Galimard Perfumery has offices here. A
visitor can create their own perfume with the help of a master
perfumer.
The center of the French perfume industry is in
Grasse. Perfumeries such as Molinard,
Fragonard, and Galimard are headquartered here. Each conducts
tours and has a museum.
The largest commercial port in France is
located in Marseille. It is home of French
hip-hop music and is a major center of art and history with a
many museums and galleries. It is known for its cuisine. It is
also a high tourist area.
Nice is also a major resort
and tourist town on the French Riviera. It is the second most
popular tourist city after Paris. There are a number of places
of interest including cathedrals and chateaux. There is a lot
of open space where people can gather and where performances
and concerts are held.