Antibes is an incredibly picturesque destination, full of history, cute cafés, art, and culture.
It truly has a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from other cities on the Mediterranean coast because, despite its popularity as a tourist resort over the years, it has somehow maintained its unique character.
Honestly, Antibes might just be my favorite town on the French Riviera.
With its stunning harbor and pristine beaches, Antibes is a sublime destination that’s perfect for unwinding amid the gorgeous coastal scenery.
Here, visitors can enjoy the city by exploring its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance fortifications, relaxing on the beach, or strolling through its colorful marketplaces full of traditional art, fragrant flowers, and delicious food. A Mediterranean paradise, if you ask me.
In this guide, you will read about all the reasons why the beautiful city of Antibes is so worth visiting.
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15 Reasons Why Antibes is Worth visiting
1- It feels more authentic than other popular spots on the French Riviera
Although still a touristic destination, Antibes somehow feels quieter and more real than other towns nearby.
Here, you will find more French tourists and locals than you would anywhere else, making it a great destination to experience the true culture of this area.
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2- Antibes has a wonderful cafe culture
Antibes has a vibrant cafe culture that locals and visitors alike are sure to enjoy.
Taking a seat at one of the outdoor cafes is an integral part of experiencing the town. And there are so many great cafes to choose from!
Here, you will find the perfect spot to sip your espresso while surrounded by locals who occupy the sidewalk tables to catch up with friends and read their favorite books.
The atmosphere of these small cafes is calm and very interesting, as conversations cross through languages like French, Spanish, and Italian.
With a steaming cappuccino in hand, there is no better way to explore this charming town whose culture emphasizes relaxation and community bonding.
3- The food scene is extraordinary
The restaurant scene in Antibes is almost incomparable, filled with some of the best cuisines in all of France.
From traditional French bistros to seafood restaurants and alfresco dining venues, there are plenty of excellent eateries to explore here.
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4- It’s home to a beautiful harbor filled with luxury yachts
Antibes’s Vieux Port—or Old Port—is a stunning harbor filled with luxury yachts.
It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the shimmering waters and gaze at all of the big boats moored in the port.
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5- Plenty of charming squares to explore
Antibes is full of charming squares, each with its own character and atmosphere.
These squares are surrounded by lovely restaurants and coffee and are a great place to spend an afternoon.
6- It is so easy to visit from Cannes or Nice
Antibes is conveniently located between Cannes and Nice, making it easy to access from either of these two popular cities.
There are plenty of public transportation options available like the train, bus, or even a taxi service if you’re looking for a more comfortable way to get around.
7- Picasso Museum
The Picasso Museum in Antibes is an absolute must-visit for art lovers.
This museum houses a large collection of the Spanish master’s works, including some original paintings from his time in the south of France.
The museum also offers some interesting permanent exhibitions that will give you insight into Picasso’s life and work as well as temporary exhibits that feature other acclaimed artists.
8- Antibes is a great base for exploring the French Riviera
Antibes makes an excellent base from which to explore the rest of the beautiful French Riviera.
From here, you can easily access some of the region’s most popular attractions like Monaco or Menton.
You can also venture further out and visit quaint towns like Grasse or Vence. And don’t forget about all of the incredible beaches that are so close by.
9- It has fantastic weather year-round
The Mediterranean climate in Antibes means it enjoys mild winters and warm summers with plenty of sunshine throughout the year—making it the perfect place for any type of traveler and any time of year.
Whether you’re looking to escape the cold winter months or want to soak up some sun during summer, Antibes’ mild weather means you’ll always have a great time.
10- Friendly locals
The people in Antibes are known for being warm and welcoming.
From friendly conversations with shopkeepers and restaurant staff to helpful advice from locals passing by, you’ll be sure to meet some great people, especially if you visit during the off-season.
11- Cute shops and thrift shops
What could be better than exploring Antibes’ beautiful cobblestone streets and taking in the sights?
Doing all of this while stopping at cute shops, delicious restaurants, and inviting cafes along the way where you will find everything from fresh pastries and artisanal cheeses to souvenirs and jewelry.
12- Breathtaking views from atop Fort Carré
If you’re looking for a stunning view of Antibes’ Old Town, then head to Fort Carré.
This 16th-century fort is perched on top of a hill overlooking the city, offering unbeatable views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea below.
From here, you’ll also be able to admire the old harbor and get a glimpse of some of Antibes’ most impressive landmarks.
13- It is minutes away from Juan Le Pins
Antibes is also just a few minutes away from the fun and lively town of Juan Les Pins.
Here, you’ll find plenty of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs that stay open until the wee hours of the morning—perfect for those looking to let loose!
And during summertime, countless festivals and concerts are happening in this vibrant seaside destination.
14- It’s a fantastic sailing destination
Antibes is a fantastic sailing destination. Its sheltered harbor makes it an ideal spot for boats of all sizes and the surrounding coastline features some stunning scenery.
You can rent a boat or join a group sail to explore the area, soak up some sun on the deck, and take in beautiful views along the way.
Where to stay in Antibes
There are many wonderful hotels to choose from in Antibes, but my favorites are definitely Mas Djoliba, La Garoupe-Gardiole, and Hôtel La Villa Port d’Antibes & Spa.
Best Antibes tours
- Private Boat Tour in Antibes with Snorkeling
- Provence Wine Tour – Private Day tour from Antibes
- Private sea excursion in a solar catamaran in Antibes Juan les Pins
Antibes Travel Guide & Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I spend in Antibes?
The amount of time you should spend in Antibes depends on what activities you plan on doing.
We recommend a minimum of two days to explore the city, with an extra day for activities like sailing and visiting nearby towns.
However, if you have more time, it can easily be stretched out to a week or longer!
Is it better to stay in Antibes or Juan les Pins?
That depends on what type of experience you are looking for.
If you want to be close to the action and lively nightlife, then Juan les Pins is the place for you.
However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, then we recommend staying in Antibes.
How do you spend a day in Antibes?
A day in Antibes can be as busy or relaxed as you make it.
Start your morning with a stroll through the Old Town and explore the local boutiques and art galleries.
Then, take a lunch break at one of the cafes along the waterfront to soak up some stunning views. In the afternoon, head to Fort Carré for some incredible views and take a boat tour of the harbor.
Finish your day with dinner at one of the local restaurants or a night out at Juan les Pins!
Conclusion: Is Antibes worth visiting?
As you know can probably tell, Antibes is definitely worth visiting.
This town is truly one of the most special places in France—offering a delightful combination of beauty, culture and friendliness that’s hard to find anywhere else.
From stunning yachts to quaint squares and great weather year-round, there’s no shortage of reasons to visit.
Oh! And if you are visiting the South of France soon, follow my Instagram for more hidden gems and travel tips. Happy travels!
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