Savor the French Riviera: The Ultimate Food & Wine Tour Guide

The French Riviera isn’t just about glamorous beaches and yacht-filled harbors—it’s a culinary paradise where Provençal flavors meet Mediterranean freshness. From sun-kissed vineyards to bustling markets, here’s how to indulge in the best food and wine tours along the Côte d’Azur.

🍷 1. Sip Rosé in Provence’s Vineyards

The Riviera’s hinterland is dotted with world-class wineries, where crisp rosés and bold reds thrive under the southern sun.

Must-Visit Vineyards:

✔ Château de Berne (Lorgues) – A luxury estate with wine tastings amid lavender fields.
✔ Domaine de la Bégude (Bandol) – Famous for its full-bodied Mourvèdre reds.
✔ Château de Crémat (Nice) – The only vineyard within Nice’s city limits.

Tour Tip: Book a half-day tour from Cannes or Nice (many include cheese pairings!).

🍋 2. Taste Local Specialties at Provençal Markets

The Riviera’s markets are a feast for the senses—colorful, aromatic, and bursting with flavor.

Best Markets to Explore:

📍 Cours Saleya (Nice) – Try socca (chickpea pancake) and pissaladière (onion tart).
📍 Marché Forville (Cannes) – Fresh seafood, olives, and local tapenade.
📍 Place aux Herbes (Antibes) – Where chefs buy their seasonal produce.

Must-Try:

• Pan bagnat (Niçoise salad in a sandwich)
• Tourte de blettes (sweet Swiss chard pie)
• Aioli garni (garlic mayo with boiled veggies & fish)

🦞 3. Feast on Seafood by the Mediterranean

With the sea at its doorstep, the Riviera serves ultra-fresh seafood in unforgettable settings.

Top Dining Experiences:

✔ Le Plongeoir (Nice) – Dine on a rock-top pavilion over the waves.
✔ La Guérite (Cannes’ Île Sainte-Marguerite) – A chic island spot for lobster pasta.
✔ Chez Hortense (Cap d’Antibes) – Hidden gem with bouillabaisse views.

Local Secret: Order oursins (sea urchins) in winter—when they’re at their best!

🍸 4. Cocktails with a View

The Riviera’s rooftop bars and beach clubs mix drinks as dazzling as the scenery.

Best Sunset Sips:

🌅 Le Roof (Nice) – Overlooking the Baie des Anges.
🌴 Les Pecheurs (Saint-Tropez) – Romantic pier-side cocktails.
🍾 Blue Gin (Monaco) – Sleek bar with DJ beats and harbor lights.

Try This: A “French Spritz” (local rosé + Lillet + elderflower).

🧀 5. Cheese & Charcuterie Tastings

No French food tour is complete without artisanal cheeses and cured meats.

Where to Go:

🧀 Fromagerie Ceneri (Nice) – Aged Comté and creamy Banon.
🍖 Maison Auer (Monaco) – Truffle-infused saucisson since 1820.
🍷 Wine & cheese pairings – Many tours combine them (ask for Picodon goat cheese!).

🚗 How to Tour Like a Pro

• Guided Tours: Companies like Riviera Wine Tours offer curated tastings.
• Self-Drive: Rent a car and follow the Route des Vins de Provence.
• Boat + Wine Combos: Some tours include coastal cruises between vineyards.

Pro Tip: In summer, book tastings in advance—many estates require reservations.

🍽️ Ready to Eat & Drink Your Way Through the Riviera?

Pair your tastings with a luxury villa stay—DM “GOURMETRIVIERA” for our top foodie-friendly rentals!