Antibes

In ancient times, Antibes was known as Antipolis, or "the town opposite". You can explore this Greco-Roman past in the region's many archaeological sites, which are often open-air.

Today, the town is the second largest in the Alpes-Maritimes department, behind Nice. Its Mediterranean climate, exceptional sunshine and beautiful seafront attract tourists from around the world; the atmosphere is lively, whether in summer or winter, and there's plenty to do: watch yachts from the wall-walk of the Vauban ramparts or the Bastion Saint-Jaume, be moved by the cartoons of the Peynet museum or lose yourself in the paintings of the Picasso museum, stroll along rue du Haut Castelet in the commune libre du Safranier, then the alleyways of the Provençal market on place Masséna, or even dream of pirates along the Fort Carré path. There are many sides to Antibes and just as many activities on offer.

When it comes to the seaside, you can bask in the sun on the beaches of le Colombier, le Rocher or la Garoupe, where you can hire sun loungers and deck chairs to enjoy the magnificent landscape of one of the world's most beautiful bays. On some beaches, such as l'Ambassadeur or la Joliette, you can enjoy grilled fish while dipping your toes in the water, before trying waterskiing or exploring the coast in a kayak or on a paddleboard.

The commune is located to the north of Cap d'Antibes, offering a captivating view over Nice and the Baie des Anges. From the peninsula, which is dotted with the luxury mansions of celebrities, you can walk along perfumed hiking trails between pine forests and the turquoise sea. The best known is the Tire-Poil coastal path, which is almost two miles long. After getting away from it all in the wilderness, enjoy lively nights beside the sea or in the streets of the fortified old town.

If travelling by air, you can reach Antibes from Nice airport, 12 miles away. By train, you'll arrive at Antibes station. Alternatively, by car take exit 44 on the A8 motorway.