Travelling to Antibes France – A complete Guide

Where is Antibes?

The beautiful port town of Antibes is located in the Southeastern France. It is one of the most visited places of Provence–Alpes–Côte d’Azur region. You can enjoy a 28 minutes journey from Nice to Antibes via train operated by SNCF. The train leaves every 30 minutes so travelling between the two cities is not a problem.  From Nice International Airport, you can hop on to Express Bus 250 or book a private vehicle to reach Antibes.

Is Antibes Worth Visiting?

Antibes is a vibrant and culturally rich seaside town offering an incredible yachting experience. It is a perfect holiday destination celebrating numerous festivities around the year. Antibes is perfect combination of picturesque cobbled streets and some amazing beach resorts. If you want to enjoy the city to the fullest make sure to have at three days in Antibes.

Is Antibes Expensive?

The cost of staying in the city is a little higher than the average city. Tourists may opt for hotels as vacation rentals are quite expensive because of the ever rising cost of property in the city. Taxis could be very costly so travelling through public transport is a cheap alternative. Nice dining could be very expensive in Antibes. An average meal in an inexpensive restaurant can cost up to 30€ but the cost of 5 and 7 star restaurants may range from 100€ -150€.

Overall, Antibes is expensive just like the rest of Cote d’Azur.

What is there to do in Antibes France?

Antibes is a perfect weekend getaway option so if you are tired of the daily hectic routine, plan a quick trip to this glorious port city. Antibes became a part of France in the 15th century but its history dates back to 500 BC reflected through the Greek posts. The natural beauty, luxurious villas, picturesque beaches and fascinating museums makes Antibes a must-visit international attraction.

 Here are some of the most famous fascinations to see in the city.

Cap d’Antibes

The cap is the main headland between Antibes and Juan-les-Pins. Filled with villas, gardens and exquisite view of the sea, Cap is the luxury centre of Antibes. Make sure to visit the La Garoupe chapel which is dedicated to the loved ones lost at the sea. The Cap also homes an 11 acre park called Villa Eilenroc that is a perfect after noon stop by. You can rest under the palm trees and admire the beauty of the deep blue sea.

The Naval and Napoleonic Museum

This implausible museum is located in the view of a battery that was restored by Napoleon. It houses interesting artefacts related to the General’s family and adventurous life. You will also find a wide variety of hats owned by French Emperor.

The Picasso museum

The museum is located in the Château Grimaldi that was Picasso’s residence for six months.  He donated numerous artworks to the museum. It contains 254 master pieces of Picasso along with other impressionist art.

Safranier Free Commune

Right in the heart of Old Antibes, a somewhat special district is hidden near the covered market and the Promenade de l’Amiral de Grasse: the free commune of Safranier. This district, made up of just a few lanes, is independent of the commune of Antibes with its own mayor! Composed of village houses, restored according to the rules of art, it breathes calm and tranquillity.

 Marineland Amusement park

MArineland is a must visit specially if you have children. The interesting display of dolphins, sharks, sea lions and killer whales is equally intriguing for all ages.  A summer trip without a visit to such a visit is incomplete and boring. Trained dolphins and sea lions are a sight to see.

Fort Carré

Fort Carré is a 16th century Roman building offering an incredible view of the harbour. It is historically important as Napoleon was imprisoned here during the French Revolution. It is also one of the filming sites of the movie ‘Never Say Never Again’.

The beaches

Of course you cannot go back from Antibes without spending some time sunbathing on the beach. Plage de la Salis offers showers, toilets, bars and small boats and it is located near the town. 

Antibes Walking tours

Undoubtedly, walking tours are the best way to Know about the city. You don’t have to pay for walking tours as most of them are free. Antibes Free walking tours offers free walks tours around the city. You can take a tour through the historically eminent places of the city. You can also book Antibes private tours for a detailed and focused trip around the city. Being a home to writers like W. Somerset Maugham, Jules Verne and F. Scott Fitzgerald; painters like Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Claude Monet, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso and the center of Jazz music, Antibes will never fail to amaze you.

Make sure to tip your guide if you enjoy the tour.

Where to eat in Antibes France?

Antibes offers a great variety of innovative and traditional cuisines. You can find different types of local and international food depending on your preference. Antibes specializes in scrumptious sea food varieties. The street food of Antibes is another great way to enjoy the your get away but if you are looking for fine dining experience, here are 5 most famous restaurants offering your dream food.

Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit

Established in a rustic residence, Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit offers an incredible culinary experience. The restaurant was set up by Head Chef Christian Morisset which explains why it is so inviting, elegant and delicious.

Restaurant de Bacon

If you are looking for fresh fish of the French Reviera or a perfect Mediterranean cuisine, Restaurant de Bacon is your go-to option. Don’t forget to try bouillabaisse, the speciality of the restaurant.

Le Comptoir de la Tourraque

If you are awestruck by the beauty of the Antibes old town and feeling hungry, Le Comptoir de la Tourraque offers conventional French cuisine in a cosy and charming environment. The menu is quite affordable as compared to other dining option in the area.

L’oursin

Established in 1962, L’oursin is a seafood heaven. The restaurant offers fresh fish, seafood pasta, risottos with oysters, clams and lobster with a touch of uniqueness and remarkable flavours.

Le Vauban

Le Vauban offers a combination of French, European, Mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. These high-end dishes are available are very reasonable prices in a warm and welcoming environment.

Where to stay in Antibes?

Antibes has a long list of where to stay options. You can easily choose between luxury hotels, beachside villas and chateaux huddled in hilltop villages. If you are looking for accommodation in Cap d’Antibes, Hotel du Cap Eden Roc is the most famous option. However, if you find it expensive you can always go for B&B’s and villa rentals along the Plage du Ponteil & Plage de la Salis. If you are looking for cheaper accommodation options, take a short drive to the beautiful town of Biot offering cheap alternatives and camping sites.