The picturesque Old Town of Antibes is a treasure trove of small shops, cafes and restaurants. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and get lost, taking your time to enjoy a crepe or sip on a glass of local wine.
There are also plenty of beaches in and around Antibes where you can relax on silky sand and enjoy the crystal clear water. Among these is Plage de la Gravette, which combines the medieval features of the city with lush, soft sands.
1. Musee Picasso
Musee Picasso, a great spot for art lovers, is situated in an ancient 14th-century castle overlooking Antibes' port and Salis bay. It's an impressive structure that's equally as beautiful as the world-class artwork it showcases.
It's a small museum, so a one-hour visit is more than enough to see everything it has to offer. It's also free to wheelchair users.
It's a worthwhile stop for any Picasso fan, but it may disappoint those looking for a comprehensive overview of the artist's entire career. This is largely because most of the works displayed here were painted during a short stay in Antibes in 1946.
2. Port Vauban
Port Vauban is Europe’s largest marina (in terms of tonnage of boats and yachts) and is home to some of the world's most spectacular superyachts. It's a hub for sailing and yachting activity, with an annual Antibes Yacht Show drawing thousands of spectators.
This French Riviera port is a popular destination for cruising yachts and luxury motor yacht charters alike. It's located near other popular Riviera destinations, including Cannes and Monaco, making it a great option for a full week on the water.
Whether you're visiting on your own or with your guests, you can easily explore the city from the port on foot or on a bicycle tour. You'll find a wide range of activities, from beachside picnics to shopping at the Antibes market and exploring Fort Carre.
3. La Salis Beach
Antibes has long been a hidden gem on the French Riviera, between its more famous neighbors Nice and Cannes. Here, you can wander the charismatic Old Town; shop the Marche Provencal; see where Picasso worked his magic at Musee Picasso; and soak up some sun.
Plage de la Salis is a lovely beach that is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. It is free and has a beautiful view of the coast.
It gets very crowded during the summer, but it is worth visiting. The sand is soft and there are plenty of snack bars on the beach.
4. Nomade
Nomade, a glamping-themed property, is an oasis for wellness enthusiasts. Though it's not the most affordable hotel in Tulum's beach zone, its 44 well-styled rooms and big beach area make up for it with free yoga, sound healing, meditation, and weekly temazcal (Mayan sweat lodge) ceremonies.
Nomad's tented accommodations are designed in a Boho-chic style that mixes modern wood furniture and natural, neutral colors with thatched palapa roofs and concrete floors. The resort also offers thoughtful touches, including water pools to clean off sand and full-length mirrors.
The hotel's sister property Nomade Holbox is a peaceful haven on pristine white sand, turquoise waters and no cars on idyllic Holbox Island. The minimalistic aesthetic is harmonized with the island's beauty, creating a space that's ideal for disconnecting.
5. Fort Carre
The star-shaped Fort Carre, commissioned by King Henry II in the 16th century, perches on the edge of the Saint-Roch peninsula. This 360-degree viewpoint is one of the best spots in Antibes for shutterbugs and history buffs alike.
It was redeveloped in the 17th century by Vauban, bolstering its structure to withstand ricochet fire. Tours depart half-hourly, and guides speak English.
Unlike the other sites on this list, Fort Carre isn’t as well-known as Port Vauban or Picasso, but it’s a must-see. It’s an important piece of military history, and you can learn all about the fort’s role in Antibes.
It also offers a number of activities, including concerts and theater performances. You can buy a ticket and take a tour at the entrance, or you can buy tickets for a group and get a discount.
