Provencal Authenticity and Hospitality
French Riviera - Nice - Cannes - Antibes - Grasse - Parc du Mercantour
Between Cannes and Nice, Antibes is one of the most beautiful ports on the Côte d’Azur. The city, renowned for its Mediterranean charm, is a popular destination for visitors from around the world.
Antibes is a historic city that dates back thousands of years. "Antipolis" was originally a Greek trading post founded by the Phocaeans of Marseille in the 5th century BC. Later, it became a flourishing Roman city. Roman remains, such as amphorae and mosaics, bear witness to this prosperous era.
The old town, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, is surrounded by ramparts built to protect the city from invasions. These fortifications now offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Until the annexation of the County of Nice to France under Napoleon III in 1860, Antibes was an important border town between the Kingdom of France and the County of Savoy.
The Fort Carré, built in the 16th century and enhanced by Vauban, is an iconic example of French military architecture. Located on the Saint-Roch peninsula, it served as a strategic defense post to monitor the surroundings. Today, the fort is open to the public and offers a captivating glimpse into local history, accompanied by panoramic views of the sea and the Alps.
Antibes is also renowned for its cultural heritage. The Picasso Museum, housed in the Château Grimaldi, contains an impressive collection of works by the artist, who stayed there in 1946. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.
The Juan-les-Pins Jazz Festival, created in 1960, draws artists and jazz enthusiasts from around the globe every year. Set in an enchanting environment under seaside pine trees, it remains one of the region's most prominent cultural events.
For marine life enthusiasts, the Marineland park is a must-see. In addition to shows featuring orcas, dolphins, and sea lions, the park offers immersive aquariums and educational experiences for all ages. Nearby, the Aquasplash water park and Kids Island children's park provide a variety of family-friendly activities.
Antibes also stands out for its economic and technological dynamism. Located near Sophia Antipolis, the largest technology park in Europe, the city benefits from the presence of many innovative companies in fields such as IT, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence.
Finally, with its Provençal markets, sandy beaches, and ports hosting both fishing boats and luxury yachts, Antibes remains an unmissable destination, blending history, culture, and Mediterranean art de vivre.