Today’s article takes us on a scenic drive through the French Riviera, starting with the culinary delights of Nice. We then pass through Eze, known for its perfume industry and winding paths with stunning sea views, and end our journey overlooking the nighttime harbor lights of Monte Carlo.

The south of France is renowned for its sensory overload. If Europe were a brain, Provence and the French Riviera would be its pleasure center, dazzling visitors with its beauty, fragrant lavender breezes, delicious cuisine, and warm terra cotta sun.

A great way to explore this region is by driving along the coastal roads from Nice to Monte Carlo. This area is a playground for the wealthy, and you’ll see impressive villas and yachts along the way.

Nice, the most famous city in the area, offers plenty to do, from beach outings to sampling Niçoise cuisine. The food here is a highlight, with small pastry shops offering delicious treats at reasonable prices. If you visit during Carnival (February 18 – March 8), local food vendors bring their specialties to the streets amidst parades and celebrations.

After enjoying Nice, take the coastal road (motorway D6098) to Monte Carlo. Along the way, you’ll pass through the beautiful village of Villefranche-Sur-Mer and enjoy views of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a peninsula dotted with estates owned by celebrities and royalty, often called the “Crown Jewel” of the Riviera.

One of the best detours is the village of Eze, with its winding walkways that cascade from a scenic overlook down to the coast. Eze is famous for its perfume industry, and you can tour the facilities and sample the fragrances. There are also museums documenting the history of the perfumeries.

Eze is just a 15-minute drive from Monte Carlo, where you can explore the Grimaldi Palace and try your luck at the famous Monte Carlo Casino. People-watching along the harbor in Monaco is a perfect way to end the day, as the lights from the yachts illuminate the harbor at sunset. What a way to spend a day!