Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur Region

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.