Corsica & French Riviera

Nice, located along the French Riviera, combines Mediterranean charm with cultural elegance. Known for its sunny climate and stunning coastline, Nice has attracted artists, writers, and travelers for centuries. The Promenade des Anglais, a long stretch of seafront with breathtaking views, is perfect for leisurely strolls or simply enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

The city’s old town, or Vieux Nice, is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets filled with pastel-colored buildings, markets, and cafés. It is also home to boutiques and art galleries that reflect the city’s creative spirit. Nearby, the Castle Hill (Colline du Château) provides panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean.

Nice boasts a vibrant art scene. The Musée Matisse houses an extensive collection of works by Henri Matisse, who spent much of his life in Nice. Art lovers will also appreciate the Musée Marc Chagall, which features some of the artist’s most iconic pieces.

Food in Nice is a reflection of its Mediterranean heritage, featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Visitors should try Niçoise salad, pissaladière (an onion and anchovy tart), and freshly caught seafood.

Portofino, Italy, is a jewel on the Italian Riviera, famed for its colorful buildings, glamorous yachts, and charming harbor. This picturesque fishing village, with its pastel-colored houses that cascade down to the emerald-green waters, exudes a quaint yet luxurious atmosphere. The Piazzetta, the heart of Portofino, is a lively square where visitors can sip an espresso or enjoy fresh seafood while watching the elegant boats bobbing gently in the harbor. This is a perfect spot to start exploring the narrow streets filled with boutiques, artisan shops, and vibrant galleries that have captivated artists and writers for decades. Portofino's allure has long drawn celebrities and jet-setters, making it a playground for the rich and famous. Still, its serene beauty and relaxed pace make it a haven for all types of travelers.

One of Portofino’s must-see attractions is the Castello Brown, a hilltop fortress dating back to the 16th century that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea. This historic castle, once a strategic military outpost, is now a museum that provides insight into the region’s history while serving as a venue for art exhibitions and cultural events. A walk up to the castle through lush Mediterranean gardens is rewarded not only with history but also with some of the most stunning vistas of the Italian Riviera.

For nature lovers, the Portofino Regional Park is an outdoor paradise. With its rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and verdant forests, the park offers numerous hiking trails that wind through olive groves and maritime pines, leading to secret beaches and stunning viewpoints. The trail to San Fruttuoso Abbey, a hidden gem only accessible by foot or boat, is particularly popular. Nestled in a secluded bay, this ancient Benedictine monastery is a mesmerizing blend of history, architecture, and nature. It is also home to the famous submerged bronze statue of Christ of the Abyss, which has become a pilgrimage site for divers from around the world.

Fun fact: Portofino was originally called "Portus Delphini," or "Port of the Dolphin," due to the large number of dolphins that inhabited the surrounding waters. The name was bestowed upon the village by the Romans, who were enamored with the region's natural beauty. Today, while the dolphins may be a rarer sight, the charm and elegance of Portofino remain undiminished, making it a timeless destination on the Italian Riviera.

Alghero, located on the northwest coast of Sardinia, Italy, is a seaside city that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as “Little Barcelona” due to its Catalan influence, Alghero’s old town is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and medieval walls overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can explore landmarks like the imposing Torre del Portal, a medieval tower that is a testament to the city’s rich heritage.

Alghero is also a culinary delight. Fresh seafood is a staple, with dishes like lobster Catalan-style (aragosta alla catalana) and sea urchin pasta reflecting the city’s coastal roots. Don’t forget to try the local pastries, such as seadas, a sweet treat filled with cheese and drizzled with honey.

Calvi, a picturesque gem on the northwest coast of Corsica, France, enchants visitors with its blend of rich history, rugged landscapes, and sparkling Mediterranean waters. This charming seaside town is dominated by its iconic citadel, a formidable 15th-century fortress that stands sentinel over the turquoise bay. As you wander the cobbled streets within its walls, you'll uncover a labyrinth of ancient architecture, quaint boutiques, and inviting cafés that offer sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and sea.

Calvi’s vibrant marina is the beating heart of the town, where the scent of freshly baked pastries mingles with the salty sea air. Lined with lively bars, gourmet restaurants, and colorful boats bobbing in the water, the marina is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal or sip on a glass of local Corsican wine. For those keen on water activities, the pristine Calvi Beach, with its soft sands and gentle waves, is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply basking in the sun. Nearby, you can also embark on a snorkeling or diving adventure to explore the rich underwater life of the Corsican coast.

Culture and history lovers will find plenty to uncover in Calvi, believed to be the birthplace of Christopher Columbus—a claim celebrated with a bronze statue near the citadel's entrance. The town also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Calvi on the Rocks music festival, which transforms the beach into a vibrant open-air stage, attracting visitors from all over Europe. These events, coupled with the town's rich past, provide a dynamic mix of old-world charm and contemporary excitement.

Fun fact: Legend has it that Calvi’s motto, "Calvi semper fidelis" (Calvi always faithful), was given by the King of Aragon in the 13th century, as the town never surrendered to invaders. This enduring spirit is still palpable today as you explore this charming Corsican enclave, where each corner reveals a new story waiting to be discovered.

Saint-Tropez, located on the glamorous French Riviera, epitomizes luxury and allure. Once a quaint fishing village, this iconic destination has evolved into a playground for celebrities and discerning travelers. Visitors are greeted by the picturesque Old Port, lined with elegant yachts and vibrant cafés where you can savor the Mediterranean ambiance. The colorful façades and narrow streets of the old town, particularly around Place des Lices, offer a charming backdrop for leisurely strolls and lively markets.

The town is also famed for its stunning beaches, such as Pampelonne Beach, a five-kilometer stretch of golden sand embraced by crystal-clear waters. Whether lounging under a parasol at the exclusive Club 55 or enjoying a casual beachside meal, the seaside experiences in Saint-Tropez are nothing short of luxurious. The nearby Parc de la Moutte offers a tranquil retreat with its lush gardens and panoramic views over the Bay of Saint-Tropez.

Art and culture flourish in Saint-Tropez, with the Annonciade Museum showcasing works by post-Impressionist artists who were inspired by the town's light and landscape. The Citadel of Saint-Tropez, perched on a hill, provides historical insight and sweeping views of the Mediterranean. The annual Saint-Tropez Polo Club matches and the vibrant nightlife, including famed venues like Les Caves du Roy, further enhance the town’s reputation as a hotspot for those seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Fun fact: Saint-Tropez is not only known for its beaches but also for its legendary "Tropezienne" tart, a sweet brioche filled with a light cream, which has become a local delicacy. This treat was popularized by the famous French actress Brigitte Bardot in the 1950s, adding a touch of star-studded history to the town’s culinary scene.

Saint-Tropez, located on the glamorous French Riviera, epitomizes luxury and allure. Once a quaint fishing village, this iconic destination has evolved into a playground for celebrities and discerning travelers. Visitors are greeted by the picturesque Old Port, lined with elegant yachts and vibrant cafés where you can savor the Mediterranean ambiance. The colorful façades and narrow streets of the old town, particularly around Place des Lices, offer a charming backdrop for leisurely strolls and lively markets.

The town is also famed for its stunning beaches, such as Pampelonne Beach, a five-kilometer stretch of golden sand embraced by crystal-clear waters. Whether lounging under a parasol at the exclusive Club 55 or enjoying a casual beachside meal, the seaside experiences in Saint-Tropez are nothing short of luxurious. The nearby Parc de la Moutte offers a tranquil retreat with its lush gardens and panoramic views over the Bay of Saint-Tropez.

Art and culture flourish in Saint-Tropez, with the Annonciade Museum showcasing works by post-Impressionist artists who were inspired by the town's light and landscape. The Citadel of Saint-Tropez, perched on a hill, provides historical insight and sweeping views of the Mediterranean. The annual Saint-Tropez Polo Club matches and the vibrant nightlife, including famed venues like Les Caves du Roy, further enhance the town’s reputation as a hotspot for those seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Fun fact: Saint-Tropez is not only known for its beaches but also for its legendary "Tropezienne" tart, a sweet brioche filled with a light cream, which has become a local delicacy. This treat was popularized by the famous French actress Brigitte Bardot in the 1950s, adding a touch of star-studded history to the town’s culinary scene.

Nice, located along the French Riviera, combines Mediterranean charm with cultural elegance. Known for its sunny climate and stunning coastline, Nice has attracted artists, writers, and travelers for centuries. The Promenade des Anglais, a long stretch of seafront with breathtaking views, is perfect for leisurely strolls or simply enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

The city’s old town, or Vieux Nice, is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets filled with pastel-colored buildings, markets, and cafés. It is also home to boutiques and art galleries that reflect the city’s creative spirit. Nearby, the Castle Hill (Colline du Château) provides panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean.

Nice boasts a vibrant art scene. The Musée Matisse houses an extensive collection of works by Henri Matisse, who spent much of his life in Nice. Art lovers will also appreciate the Musée Marc Chagall, which features some of the artist’s most iconic pieces.

Food in Nice is a reflection of its Mediterranean heritage, featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Visitors should try Niçoise salad, pissaladière (an onion and anchovy tart), and freshly caught seafood.