Day Trips from Barcelona to France: Exploring the French Riviera
Barcelona is a bright and noisy city situated on the eastern coast of Spain, so in addition to local attractions, it becomes possible to explore various interesting places in the regions of France. In this blog post, we will guide you through some astonishing day trips from Barcelona to France, more precisely, to the French Riviera.
1. Nice
The rich coastal town of Nice is often nicknamed the “Nice, Queen of the French Riviera,” and that is why the town is so popular. It is just a train ride away from Barcelona and holds a perfect combination of beauty that lies between charm and history along with scenic beauty.
This is where you should also visit promenade des Anglais, a picturesque pedestrians area located at the coastal area. Being a place with a really vibrant nightlife, a picturesque view of the beach shored with pebbles will greet you. Stroll along the promenade des Anglais and go to the Old Town of Nice, which is characterized by the narrow alleys, houses of vivid colors, shops and cafes. Also, enjoy picturesque scenery that is offered by Castle Hill (Colline du Château) and get know more about local traditions visiting Cours Saleya Market.
2. Cannes
Cannes, which is famous for its event for movie lovers – the international film festival, is also an interesting place to visit. It is only located an hour by train from Barcelona and has the best option to get a taste of luxury and glamour.
While in Cannes you should walk along the Boulevard de la Croisette, this area is lined with fine hotels and designer shops. See the Palais des Festivals – the building, in which the famous movie festival is held. Lie down on the soft sand, or visit an old city of Le Suquet, which is a westerly district of Cannes with beautiful view of the city and the sea.
3. Monaco
To get a glimpse of luxury and glamour, there is no better place for the summer than Monaco. Monaco is the second smallest country in the world but highly elegant and it is situated near Barcelona, about an hour’s journey by train.
When you arrive, be sure to drop by at the Casino de Monte-Carlo; this is popularly known as the symbol of radiant and rich Monaco. Visit Château for a walk along the green area represented by the park of the Prince Palace and see the Change of Guards performance. Enjoy the atmosphere of the old city, visit the buildings and shops of Monaco-Ville. Also, do not overskip on the opportunity to watch the people at the fancy Port Hercules where you can see luxurious yachts.
4. Antibes
Antibes is one of the most scenic and historical towns that lie between Cannes and Nice and boasts impressive sandy beaches.
During the stay in Antibes, one should definitely have a walk in the beautiful old quarter of the city and climb up the long walls for the view to the Mediterranean sea. See; The Picasso Museum found in the Château Grimaldi where the palace houses many Picasso’s masterpieces. You can relax at the natural sandy stretch of the Plage de la Gravette beach or perhaps, wander through the local market, the Marché Provençal which exhibits an array of fresh foods and colored shacks.
5. Saint-Tropez
If you dry to find an area that is chic and fashionable in a single day trip, then Saint tropez is your trek. One of the coastal deluxe tourist destinations is reached by ferry or bus from Barclelona mainly for sea side party atmosphere.
During a stroll in Saint-Tropez, it is advisable to visit the ‘Vieux Port’ which is all about yachts and a cup of coffee at a café at the sea side. Experience the flair of the old town and do shopping for local souvenirs in various outlets and shops such as art galleries. Take moment at any of the famous beach clubs, including Nikki Beach or Pampelonne Beach that are famous for their glamour and thrilling celebrity.
Conclusion
Going on day trips from Barcelona to the French Riviera is a great chance of visiting completely different and appealing places for tourists. Due to this, every one of these day trips is an exciting, distinctive experience depending on whether you fancy history, scenic beauty, or opulence. Gather your schedule, assemble your luggages, and be prepared for a trip from Catalonia to the French Riviera!
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