The Best Things to Do in Antibes: Your Curated Guide

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When it comes to things to do in Antibes, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The city has stunning beaches, a rich history, and a plethora of cultural attractions that all vie for your attention. So, if you haven’t yet been completely seduced by the magic of the French Riviera, a visit to the endearing Mediterranean seaside town of Antibes will surely send you over the edge.

Set on France’s delightful southern coast, this town is our favorite day trip from the charming Nice and laid-back Cannes — both of which bookend it.

Unlike other parts of the French Riviera, which are defined by the opulence of multi-million-dollar mansions, fancy sports cars and luxury yachts, this town is a little more understated.

Don’t get us wrong, as any Antibes travel guide will tell you, there are still plenty of deluxe superyachts to be spotted at Port Vauban. However, beyond that, the town has authentic markets, inspiring art galleries, immersive museums, and historical landmarks that are guaranteed to pique your interest.

If you like the sound of heading to a place the Ancient Greeks once called ‘Antipolis’, here are our recommendations for what to include on an Antibes 1-day itinerary.

Is Antibes Worth Visiting?

We hear you thinking, ‘Is Antibes worth visiting’? Well, in our opinion, the answer is a resounding yes!

First of all, the town is easy to get to via a relatively short and also very affordable train ride from most of the French Riviera’s major hot spots, including the jaw-dropping Principality of Monaco, Cannes and Nice.

But perhaps more compellingly, it is blessed with an artistic soul, thanks in no small part to its association with Pablo Picasso, who, although not born there, spent much of his time in this charming Mediterranean seaside town. His influence can be widely seen in the local art and cultural scene, as well as in other parts of the Antibes aesthetic, most notably the architecture.

The old town, enclosed by ramparts dating back to the 16th century and dominated by Fort Carré and its incredible sweep of sandy beaches, provides complementary contrasts that are every bit as captivating as the great Spanish painter’s most famous works.

Picasso once said, ‘The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls’. After spending a day in this engaging part of the Côte d’Azur, you might think the same about visiting Antibes.

Antibes Travel Guide: The Essentials

Getting to Antibes by Train: This town is easily accessible by the coastal TER train services. Wherever you are on the French Riviera—even as far as the lovely town of Menton—you can likely reach it within 30 minutes to an hour. The trains are usually not too crowded, unless you’re traveling during peak hours.

Plus, there are plenty of trains running throughout the day. There’s no need to book tickets weeks in advance, either—unlike the TGV, TER trains can typically be booked up to 30 minutes before departure. You can easily do this online, via the SNCF mobile app (which is very convenient as it shows train platforms, alerts you to possible delays, and more), or directly at the station platforms.

Getting to Antibes by Car: The French Riviera is well-equipped for travelers exploring by car, with an excellent network of roads and ample parking areas. During our journey through the Côte d’Azur, we split our travel between train and car, which proved to be a very convenient combination. We booked our vehicle through Discovercars and had a wonderful experience.

Antibes offers several spacious paid parking lots, with the largest being Espace Jean Bunoz and Bouygues, each accommodating around 120 vehicles. On-street parking is also available and is free on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Additionally, parking is complimentary between noon and 2 pm, and from 6 pm to 9 am.

Each vehicle is entitled to one free hour of parking per day on workdays. While this may not suffice for a full-day visit, you can make online reservations to pre-book a spot in a paid parking lot, potentially saving money and ensuring convenience.

Having Access to Information: Access to free public Wi-Fi in Antibes is limited. For travelers navigating by car, adjusting plans en route, or seeking information while exploring the town, having affordable internet access is invaluable. We utilized Airalo’s digital eSIMs during our trip and found them both convenient and cost-effective.

Travel Insurance with a Special Discount: Unexpected hiccups can happen during any trip, and travel insurance can be a lifesaver. To help you stay covered without breaking the bank, our blog offers a special 5% discount on Heymondo travel insurance for readers. Just a heads-up—this deal doesn’t apply to all countries of residence, so be sure to check if you’re eligible before booking. Safe travels!

Antibes 1-Day Itinerary: The Best Things to Do

If you have only got one day to spare in the town, you’ll need to be organized to make the most of your visit.

One of the most popular things to do in Antibes is to visit the Musée Picasso. It is housed in the ancient Château Grimaldi and boasts a stunning collection of works by Pablo Picasso, who used the castle as his studio in 1946.

If you are a fan of his work or an art lover in general, you’ll be captivated by the selection of his masterpieces that are on display here, including the famous ‘La Joie de vivre’, as well as ‘The Woman with the Sea Urchins’ and ‘She-Goat’. Make sure you take in some of the mesmerizing sea views from the museum’s terrace.

• After leaving the museum, continue your exploration at Antibes Old Town, whose labyrinth of narrow, cobbled streets brims with mystery and character. This historic area accommodates plenty of bustling squares perfect for people watching. Sometimes, though, simply browsing the streets may feel like it’s not enough. If you want the Old Town to come alive with stories, consider signing up for a guided 2-hour tour that reveals the hidden history and local legends woven into its charming corners.
• You can also browse some local boutiques and shop at the bustling Provençal Market for fresh produce and artisanal goods.
• Another fun thing to do in Antibes is a self-guided walking tour and scavenger hunt. Solve riddles and clues on your smartphone that lead you to city highlights and hidden gems—all at your own pace. This mix of sightseeing, puzzles, and exploration is perfect for curious travelers, available in English and French.
• Another iconic site in Antibes is Fort Carré, an imposing 16th-century fortress that offers awesome panoramic views over the Mediterranean and the harbor. Perched on a hill, this well-preserved fortification is steeped in history and makes for a fantastic Instagram photo, especially against the backdrop of a clear blue sky.
• Not far from it is the striking Le Nomade Antibes, which is a monumental sculpture by the acclaimed artist Jaume Plensa. This thought-provoking installation overlooks the sea and is another favorite spot for photography.
• If time permits, you should also check out the Antibes Cathedral. Officially known as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, it boasts a Baroque façade and a beautifully decorated interior that will take your breath away. It certainly did ours!
• For those who love to hunt for antiques, the market on the main square is a treasure trove of vintage finds. Here, you can pick up anything from elegant jewelry and rare books to cute trinkets and other decorative items. You could easily spend a couple of hours here wandering around in a ruminative daze.

Discover Antibes Through Hidden Gems and Instagram-Worthy Spots

• If you fancy stretching your legs or walking off a big meal, the Sentier Littoral is another Antibes must-do activity. This scenic coastal path stretches from Antibes to Juan-les-Pins along a rugged stretch of coastline that provides spectacular views of the azure waters, secluded coves, and lush greenery that define this part of the French Riviera.
• No visit to Antibes is complete without a glimpse of the luxurious Antibes Billionaires Bay. Known for its opulent yachts and exclusive atmosphere, this area epitomizes the glamour of the Riviera in a way that will blow your mind. 
• Nearby, the world-renowned Hotel du Cap Eden Roc Antibes offers a fabulous place to relax among exquisite gardens and sea-facing terraces. After a long day of sightseeing, we really enjoyed spending some time here.

Where to Eat in Antibes?

You’ll no doubt get hungry at some point during your visit. But rest assured, Anitbes’s culinary scene caters to a wide range of tastes. Some of the best places to try traditional Provençal cuisine, such as Bouillabaisse and Daube, are at the marina or the old town. La Maison de Bacon and Cap Riviera were two venues where we enjoyed fantastic meals.

Antibes also boasts several highly acclaimed restaurants, each offering unique culinary experiences. If you’re looking for a Michelin-worthy meal, consider Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit, Le Louroc, or Restaurant La Passagère. While we didn’t have the chance to personally try all the Michelin-recognized spots, we had an exceptional experience — both gastronomically and service-wise — at Restaurant La Passagère. This French gastropub stands out for its excellent food, attentive service, and charming location, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Soak Up the Sun on The Best Beaches in Antibes 

Antibes is home to some of the most stunning beaches on the French Riviera, and each one is worth spending some quality time at if you can.

Among all the best beaches in Antibes, Plage de la Gravette is a very popular choice for families. Nestled beneath the Old Town’s ancient ramparts, this sandy beach offers calm, shallow waters that are perfect for children to paddle and play. The great thing about this beach is its central location, which means it is close to a range of amenities, including public toilets and several nearby cafes.

For those seeking a bit more seclusion, Plage des Ondes on the Cap d’Antibes is a rocky cove that will provide you with all the tranquility you want. Set around lush vegetation and offering access to crystal-clear waters, we had a fabulous time snorkeling here, away from the crowds around town.

If you are after a more luxurious beach experience, the best beach clubs in Antibes offer plush sun loungers, excellent service, and gourmet dining. Royal Beach and Plage Keller are two choices we recommend from personal experience after spending some time at them unwinding in style, sipping on a refreshing cocktail, and soaking in the Mediterranean sun. You can easily lose track of time here!

A short distance from Antibes are several other coastal options, namely the magnificent Juan-les-Pins beaches. Featuring long stretches of sandy shores and lively beachside bars, they are wonderful places to visit when you fancy a change of scene.

Antibes: Where to Stay?

If you’re staying in Antibes for more than a day and wondering where to stay, there are three main areas to consider:

1. The Old Town offers plenty of accommodations — from hotels to Airbnbs — nestled within historic buildings and right in the heart of all the action. The downside? It’s a busy area, so if you’re looking for peace and quiet, this might not be for you.
2. Cap d’Antibes is a luxurious option, known for its private villas and upscale hotels. The stunning coastline is a delightful bonus, though the higher price tag reflects its exclusivity.
3. For a more local experience, consider staying in Juan-les-Pins. Located on the other side of Cap d’Antibes, it features a great selection of places to stay, many offering panoramic views of the coastline.

Antibes offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences. Here are three notable options:

• La Jabotte is a quirky little BnB with a private pool, lush garden, and delicious breakfasts. Just a couple of minutes from the nearest beach, it’s a cozy gem that gets sold out very quickly.
• Located further from the old town, in the heart of Cap d’Antibes, Villa Fabulite is a fantastic alternative to a larger hotel. Just down the street from a beautiful beach, it also has a pool and serves great breakfasts, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing stay.
• Unique Boutique Hotel Antibes Juan-les-Pins offers a stylish and comfortable stay for travelers looking for contemporary accommodations. Located in Juan-les-Pins, it boasts easy access to larger beaches, while Antibes is still within walking distance.

The Best Time to Visit Antibes

Antibes summer is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit, and it’s easy to see why. With long sunny days, turquoise Mediterranean waters, and vibrant beach life, the town becomes a hub for travelers craving coastal relaxation. It’s also the peak season for exploring the south of France’s iconic lavender fields, which bloom in nearby Provence through July. However, summer crowds mean bustling beaches, packed restaurants, and higher prices, so if you’re after a quieter experience, consider the shoulder seasons.

Antibes in May is an absolute gem. The weather is warm, with temperatures perfect for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and even early beach days. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the town’s charm without elbowing through crowds—a rare treat in this part of France! Similarly, September and October offer a sweet spot after the summer rush. The sea remains warm, the vineyards come alive with harvests, and the golden autumn light adds magic to every corner of Antibes.

If you’re looking for a different perspective, Antibes in November ushers in a quieter, almost reflective atmosphere. While the beaches are no longer the main draw, the town takes on a cozy vibe with locals reclaiming their favorite spots. Strolling the Old Town’s cobbled streets, visiting museums, or warming up with a café crème feels intimate and authentic. 

The mild winter weather, though cooler, is still far gentler than northern Europe, making it ideal for slow travelers seeking a peaceful escape. Whether it’s summer sunshine, May’s tranquility, or November’s quiet charm, Antibes has something special to offer year-round.

Places to Visit Near Antibes

If you decide to stay in Antibes for more than a day — or even use it as your base to explore the South of France — you’ll find no shortage of exciting things to do beyond this lovely town. The list of day trips from Antibes is both long and diverse, offering options like visits to larger cities such as Nice, Cannes, or Monaco, longer journeys to marvel at the natural beauty of Gorges du Verdon or Calanques de Cassis, or even a quick trip across the border into Italy.

While day trips from Antibes could easily fill a separate article, let’s focus on destinations within a 2-hour reach from the town.

A day trip to the hilltop village of St. Paul de Vence takes just 30 minutes by car. This charming, artistic village is packed with artisan shops, scenic terraces offering panoramic views of the French Riviera, and a laid-back atmosphere. However, it’s worth noting that the village can get very crowded during high season, and parking might be a challenge.

If you’d rather avoid the hassle of parking, there’s a fantastic guided tour of St. Paul de Vence and Cannes departing from Nice, making the logistics effortless.

A day trip from Antibes to Grasse takes just 40 minutes by train, bringing you to the capital of the perfume industry. Stroll through the charming old town, visit the legendary Fragonard perfume house, and, if you’re a true enthusiast, consider joining a perfume masterclass. This unique experience takes you behind the scenes of the perfume world, offering a fascinating look at how fragrances are crafted.

Explore the region by water on a sailboat cruise that takes you to parts of Cap d’Antibes typically inaccessible to the general public. What makes this day trip from Antibes so special is its focus on relaxation and a refreshing change of scenery and pace. The tour invites you to swim, explore the seabed, or even paddle along the stunning coastline.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Antibes

If you’ve ever wondered whether Antibes is worth visiting, the answer is a resounding yes! Even if you only have a day, this town offers a unique vibe you won’t find anywhere else along the French Riviera.

If you decide to stay longer, we recommend renting a place by the sea, enjoying long walks around Cap d’Antibes, and venturing out to explore nearby highlights — charming towns, picturesque villages, and the breathtaking natural beauty of the South of France.