As someone who’s lived on the French Riviera for over 20 years and is lucky enough to be the CEO of Riviera Luxury Rentals, I often get asked, “Why stay on the Riviera in the winter?” People tend to associate the Côte d’Azur with its glamorous summers, yacht-filled harbors, and celebrity-packed events like the Cannes Film Festival. But the truth is, winter is one of my absolute favorite times to be here. I’ve had the privilege of experiencing the region year-round, and there’s something uniquely magical about this time of year. Whether I’m skiing in the morning, having a relaxed lunch on the beach with my family, or wandering through quiet, picturesque villages, I always feel like winter on the Riviera offers the perfect balance of adventure and tranquility.
Let me take you through what makes the French Riviera in winter so special, based on my personal experience living, working, and raising a family here.
Morning in the Snow, Afternoon on the Beach – Yes, You Can Do Both
One of the things I love most about the Riviera in winter is the proximity to the mountains. It still amazes me that I can wake up, have breakfast with my kids, and be skiing at Isola 2000 or Auron within two hours. These ski resorts are family-friendly, which is a huge plus when you have little ones like me. I’ve spent many mornings skiing with friends, enjoying the crisp mountain air, and then heading back down to the coast in time for a late lunch by the sea.
There’s nothing quite like sitting at a beachfront café in Cannes or Nice, soaking up the sun with temperatures around 15°C (60°F), after spending the morning on the slopes. It’s like getting the best of both worlds in one day—pure magic!
Winter Discounts – Luxury Villas at a Steal
As the CEO of Riviera Luxury Rentals, I can’t help but get excited about the deals available in the winter. If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a beautiful villa on the French Riviera, winter is the time to make it happen. The demand isn’t as high as in the summer, which means you can snag a stunning property in Antibes, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, or even Monaco at a fraction of the price. Trust me, I’ve stayed in some of these villas myself during the winter months, and it’s an entirely different experience when you have these luxurious spaces all to yourself, without the crowds.
The Riviera takes on a much more relaxed and personal vibe in the winter. Instead of competing with throngs of tourists, you can enjoy peaceful walks, easy restaurant reservations, and, honestly, a deeper connection with the place. It’s also the perfect time to explore local markets, meet the artisans, and experience the area like a true local.
France and Italy in One Trip
One of the things that drew me to this area years ago—and what I still find exciting—is the proximity to Italy. Living here, we’re so lucky to have the best of both French and Italian culture within arm’s reach. During the winter, I often take day trips with my family to Menton, the last French town before the Italian border. It’s charming and quiet in the winter, and the Mediterranean light gives the pastel-colored buildings a magical glow.
From there, it’s just a quick drive into Italy’s Ventimiglia. I’ve spent countless Saturdays wandering the Italian markets, picking up fresh pasta, cheeses, and truffles. My kids love it, too—they get to practice their Italian, and the locals are always so welcoming. Whether you’re indulging in Italian cuisine or exploring the medieval towns that dot the coastline, hopping over to Italy is a must-do when you’re staying on the French Riviera in winter.
Winter Festivals – The Riviera Never Sleeps
While it’s quieter than in the summer, winter on the Riviera still offers plenty of excitement. I make it a point to attend the Nice Carnival every February, which is one of the oldest and most colorful carnivals in the world. It’s a fantastic way to bring some light and laughter into the winter months, and I love taking my children to watch the floats and parades.
Another highlight for me is the Menton Lemon Festival. Every year, Menton celebrates its citrus heritage with an event that is truly one of a kind. The creativity behind the massive sculptures made from lemons and oranges is always impressive, and it’s a fun, family-friendly day out that we look forward to.
If you’re a car enthusiast, you might enjoy the Monte Carlo Rally in January, where you can catch some high-speed action against the stunning Riviera backdrop. I’ve always found it exciting to watch the race cars zoom through Monaco and the surrounding hills—it’s an exhilarating winter event that adds a bit of thrill to the season.
Cozy Winter Dining – A Foodie’s Dream
Living here for over two decades, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the culinary scene on the Riviera. Winter, in particular, is a fantastic time to enjoy the region’s gastronomy. My wife and I often take advantage of the slower season to dine at some of the top restaurants along the coast. Many places offer seasonal dishes you won’t find in the summer, using local ingredients like truffles, mushrooms, and winter vegetables.
One of my favorite winter treats is socca, a traditional chickpea pancake you’ll find in Nice. Paired with a glass of local rosé (yes, we drink rosé year-round here!), it’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly day. I also love indulging in a hearty bowl of bouillabaisse when visiting Marseille—there’s something about seafood stews that just tastes better in the winter.
Quieter, More Intimate Towns
If you’ve ever visited the Riviera in the summer, you know that places like Saint-Tropez, Monaco, and Cannes can be packed to the brim. While that energetic buzz is fun, winter offers a much quieter and more intimate atmosphere. I love taking strolls through Saint-Tropez during the off-season. The streets are peaceful, the shops and cafés are open but relaxed, and the harbor is calm. It’s like seeing a different, more authentic side of this iconic town.
Monaco is another favorite winter destination for my family. With fewer tourists, we get to explore places like the Prince’s Palace and the Oceanographic Museum without the usual crowds. And if we’re lucky enough to be there around Christmas, the Monte Carlo Christmas Market is a festive delight that gets us into the holiday spirit.
Mild Weather – The Perfect Balance
One of the best parts about living on the French Riviera year-round is the mild winter weather. With daytime temperatures hovering between 10°C and 16°C (50°F to 60°F), it never gets too cold. I’ve never had to deal with the harsh, biting winters of northern Europe. Instead, we get to enjoy clear, sunny days perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, strolling through vineyards, or just sitting outside at a café, watching the world go by.
Even after all these years, I still find myself amazed by the light here. There’s something about the way the sun hits the sea and the hills in winter that feels almost magical. It’s one of the many reasons I’ve never left.
Wrapping Up: Winter on the Riviera is My Best-Kept Secret
After 20 years of living, working, and raising my family here, I can confidently say that winter on the French Riviera is an experience like no other. From skiing in the morning and relaxing on the beach in the afternoon, to enjoying the rich culinary scene and exploring quiet, charming towns, winter here offers something special that summer can’t match.
And as someone who’s had the privilege of staying in some of the most beautiful villas in the region—many of which are available at incredible discounts during the off-season—I can tell you that there’s no better time to treat yourself to a luxurious getaway.
So, if you’re thinking about a winter escape, why not come to the French Riviera? It’s where I’ve made my home, and I can’t imagine being anywhere else.
