Travel Guide to Antibes, France

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Ra's Travel Guide to Antibes

The must-visit for art lovers; an ultimate travel guide to Antibes.

travel guide to Antibes; what to do in Antibes

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Antibes is an ancient port town that is a must-add to your visit to the French Riviera. This smaller, resort city is rich in its culture and art history. The people are extremely friendly and the town has an all-around great vibe. I felt at home, while away from home, in a city I’ve never been to. Use this travel guide to help plan or navigate your trip to Antibes!

Getting to Antibes, France: Transportation Options and Travel Tips

Traveling to Antibes, France, is relatively easy and can be done through various means of transportation. If you are coming from abroad, the most common way to reach Antibes is by flying into Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, which is located approximately 20 kilometers from Antibes. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle service, or rent a car to reach Antibes. Another option is to travel by train, as Antibes has a well-connected train station that receives direct trains from major cities in France and Europe. If you prefer a scenic route, you can also consider traveling by boat or yacht, as Antibes boasts a beautiful marina and harbor that welcomes visitors arriving by sea. Additionally, if you are already in France, you can opt for bus services or drive your own vehicle to reach this charming coastal town. With its accessible transportation options, getting to Antibes offers a smooth and enjoyable journey to start your exploration of the stunning French Riviera.

Bus: If you’re coming from the Nice airport, bus 250 will take you directly to the city center.

Train: The French Riviera is connected by the SNCF train network. Take one of the TGV trains to Antibes from any city in the French Riviera.

Car: If you’re planning on renting a car, be aware that some cities, including Antibes, have narrow streets making it difficult to maneuver and are prone to delays.

Boat: Antibes is famous for its port, which has a lot of yachts anchor during the summer months.

Consider checking on Rome2rio, to compare travel methods and prices.

Where to Stay in Antibes, France?

Antibes offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets, making it an ideal destination for travelers of all types. For those seeking a touch of luxury and indulgence, the city boasts several high-end hotels and resorts that offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and top-notch amenities. If you prefer a more intimate and authentic experience, consider staying in one of the charming boutique hotels or guesthouses nestled within the narrow streets of the Old Town, where you can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and culture.

Additionally, there are plenty of comfortable mid-range hotels and vacation rentals available throughout the city, providing a convenient and cozy base for exploring Antibes and its surrounding areas. For budget-conscious travelers, hostels and budget hotels offer affordable options without compromising on comfort. No matter where you choose to stay in Antibes, you'll find yourself within easy reach of the city's beautiful beaches, vibrant markets, historical landmarks, and delectable dining options, ensuring an unforgettable stay on the enchanting French Riviera.

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Getting Around Antibes, France

Car

If you plan to explore the French Riviera, you can rent a car at Nice airport, but be cautious in Antibes due to its narrow streets and heavy pedestrian traffic, making driving less recommended in the city.

Bus

Getting around Antibes is convenient with the Envibus, the local transportation system, which offers easy navigation and accessibility.

Bike

Embrace the city's bike paths and sidewalks by renting a bike to enjoy scenic rides along the picturesque coastline.

Taxi

Taxis are a convenient mode of transportation in Antibes, providing easy access to various destinations within the city and the surrounding areas. While Antibes has narrow streets and heavy pedestrian traffic, taxis offer a hassle-free way to get around without the need to navigate through congested roads. You can easily find taxis at designated stands, or you can call for one using the local taxi numbers. Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing apps like Uber or local equivalents, which operate in the region.

Walking

The pedestrian-friendly nature of Antibes makes walking the preferred way to explore the city and its charming sights.

What to Do in Antibes, France?

Musée Picasso

Artist Pablo Picasso lived in Château Grimaldi in 1946. He very much enjoyed the views of Antibe’s town and ocean, so he gave pieces of his artwork to the town. In 1991, his wife Jacqueline Picasso donated more of his pieces, which eventually grew into a small museum displaying his art. Visit the museum today, and view some of Picasso’s most notable pieces.

Vielle Ville

Walk the old, narrow cobbled streets in this historic part of Antibes. Wander through the town marveling at the old architecture, which is perfect for a photograph moment.

Cap d'Antibes

Take in the amazing coastline, while enjoying the sea. It is possible to walk to Cap d’Antibes, which is what I did for about 2 hours, or you can take the local Envibus.

Musée de la Carte Postale

Located in a small storefront, view thousands of international postcards from around the world. Enjoy a step back into history, with the previous means of sharing travel before Instagram.

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Marché Provencal

At the beginning of each day, the Marché Provencal pops up in the Cours Masséna with fresh fruit, vegetables, and handmade gifts. With the history of an artist town, you’ll be able to find unique sculptures, ceramics, paintings, etc. by the local artists.

Cathedral Notre-Dame

View the unique wooden sculptured exterior of the church, which dates back to the 1400s. Step inside to view the crucifix from 1447 and the Virgin Mary sculpted in 1515.

Walk the Coastline

Antibes has an amazing coastline, with many tasty restaurants and cute boutiques along the way. Watch how the coastline changes from day to night as the city comes to life.

Famous Artist Trail

Walk the trail of the artists, which leads to spots where numerous famous artists set up their easels to paint the famous coastline. See which views you can recognize from famous paintings.

Visit the Marina

Antibes is known for its marinas which are filled with many boats ranging from personal sailboats, to super yachts. Stop and take gorgeous pictures, while checking to see the catches of the day.

Go Shopping

Antibes is an artsy town, with a history of famous artists and up and coming local artisans. Stop by the local art galleries and boutiques to support local business and find one-of-a-kind souvenirs to forever remember your trip.

Relax on the Beach

Take a break from touring the city and enjoy the teal waters and sunshine. Note that some of the beaches are quite rocky, but you can skip the rocks by heading to Plage Maya and Plage du Ponteil which have golden sand.

Antibes promises a delightful blend of historical charm, breathtaking coastal beauty, and modern conveniences, making it a captivating destination that caters to every traveler's desires. With this travel guide to Antibes, your visit is sure to be memorable.

Travel Tip

In Antibes, the majority of people speak only French, so be sure to brush up on your French since it can be difficult to find someone that speaks English.