10 Tips to Ideally Prepare Your Stay in Antibes – French Riviera

Planning a trip to the French Riviera? Whether it's your first time or your fifth, these ten expert tips will help you make the most of your stay in Antibes — a historic, sun-kissed gem nestled between Cannes and Nice. From choosing the right beach to deciding whether to hire a car, here is everything you need to know to prepare for a seamless and enriching holiday.

1. Car or No Car? Choose According to Your Plans

Antibes Old Town is now almost entirely pedestrian, making it charming to explore on foot but challenging for parking. For a stress-free experience, we recommend not bringing a car if you're staying centrally. The train station, bus lines, and coastal paths make it easy to explore without a vehicle.

However, if you're planning excursions to Monaco, Eze, Villa Ephrussi, Villa Kerylos, or even Saint-Tropez, a car becomes more practical. If driving is a must, consider staying in areas like Juan-les-Pins or the hills above Antibes, where apartments often come with parking and swimming pools.

Some rare properties in Old Town Antibes do offer private parking, such as Via Marenda or 54 Soleau— available on StayInAntibes.net. For public parking, consult antibes-juanlespins.com for updated information.

2. Focus on the Right Beach for You

If the beach is central to your holiday, you may want to favour Juan-les-Pins, where you'll find larger white sandy beaches and a vibrant seaside atmosphere.

Antibes also offers fantastic coastal options:

• Plage de la Gravette: Nestled by Port Vauban, a family-friendly cove with shallow waters.

• Plage du Ponteil: Sandy, scenic, and walkable from the Old Town.

• Plage de la Salis and hidden coves around Cap d'Antibes: Natural, less crowded, and great for snorkelling.

  
  

3. Beat the Crowds: When to Come

Antibes enjoys year-round sunshine and one of the highest blue-sky day counts in Europe. While it's always beautiful, July and August can get very crowded.

If you prefer a more tranquil experience, consider coming in spring (April-June) or early autumn (September-October). You'll still enjoy the weather — minus the tourist rush.

4. Prioritise Air Conditioning

Temperatures in summer regularly exceed 30°C (86°F). Booking an apartment without air conditioning can seriously impact your comfort, especially during July and August.

All of our listed properties at StayInAntibes.net specify whether A/C is included.

5. Plan a Few Day Trips

Antibes is a great base for exploring the Riviera. Set aside a few days to visit:

• Monaco (glamour & gardens)

• Eze (perched medieval village)

• Nice Old Town & Promenade des Anglais

• Iles de Lérins (island-hopping & clear waters)

Check out our blog for detailed guides: stayinantibes.net/fr/blog-1

6. Hotel or Holiday Apartment? Pros & Cons

While hotels offer traditional service, holiday apartments provide more space, flexibility, and a local touch. Benefits of a rental include:

• Fully equipped kitchens

• Privacy and autonomy

• Better value for families or long stays

Hotels may offer daily housekeeping and concierge, but at the cost of space and authenticity. For most travellers, a holiday apartment offers the better lifestyle choice.

7. Book Accommodation with Strategic Location

Choose your location based on your lifestyle:

• Old Town: Culture, markets, pedestrian streets

• Juan-les-Pins: Beaches, nightlife, younger vibe

• Antibes Hills: Parking, space, and scenic views

Our properties cater to each preference — browse at StayInAntibes.net.

8. Don’t Overpack: Local Shops Have Everything

You’ll find bakeries, boutiques, supermarkets, pharmacies, and weekly markets throughout Antibes and Juan-les-Pins. Bring only what you need and enjoy shopping local.

9. Learn a Few French Phrases

Even basic French will enhance your experience. A friendly "Bonjour", "Merci", and "Où est la plage ?" go a long way with locals.

10. Thinking of Buying? We Can Help

Many of our property owners first came to Antibes as holidaymakers and fell in love. If you find yourself dreaming of owning a place here, we can review the properties you’ve selected, advise on how to generate revenue from short-term holiday stays, and even take charge of interior design and seasonal rental management.

Reach out via StayInAntibes.net/contact to discuss your goals.

Your French Riviera adventure starts here — prepare smartly and enjoy fully!