I realize most people will only get to experience Antibes during day trips from larger, more touristy cities like Cannes and Nice.

But fair warning, this adorable town is the type of place that will absolutely leave you wanting to stay for more than just 24 hours.

I know, because the first two times I was in the South of France, I only planned one day in Antibes, basing myself out of Nice–and I was always left wanting to spend more time exploring.

It wasn’t until my last visit this summer that I finally broke down and based myself out of this charming little town for a month.

Now, after a month of exploring Greece, Italy, and Turkey, I’m already back in Antibes for my last stretch of time in Europe.

I just couldn’t stay away from this dreamy spot.

I was talking with a local recently, and we both agreed this little gem is like Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls

It’s super charming, everyone is friendly, the food is delicious, and there’s always a little festival or market happening. It truly has its own magic about it. 

After living in town for a good portion of the summer and fall, I’ve become a bit of an expert on the best things to do and places to eat

Let me help you make the most out of your day trip with this guide on how to spend one day in Antibes.

I’ll make sure you see and experience all the best that the town offers.

Oh, and don’t be surprised if you end your visit under the spell of Antibes, with the urge to return to explore more of this special seaside town.

Things to Do Early Morning in Antibes


Grab an Espresso and Pastry

Allys favorite boulangerie in Antibes French Riviera Pastries croissants and pain au chocolat

While I was living in Antibes, one of my favorite things to do was to grab a fresh pain au chocolat from my local boulangère, Boulangerie Veziano.

Local’s, and even royalty agree (they bake for the Prince of Monaco) that it’s the best bakery in town!

Then I’d pick up an espresso at Nomad’s Coffee, and head straight to the beach to enjoy my breakfast while taking in the views of all the sailboats in the distance.

I highly recommend making this your morning routine.

Bonus points, if you bring a beach towel and get in a bit of early morning tanning before starting off the day.

You’ll be guaranteed to have your pick of spots on the beach if you time it right.



Stroll Through the Local Marche

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Antibes’ Marché Provençal is easily one of the best markets in the South of France. 

The market is open from 6:00am until 1:00pm, but I think going around 10:00am or so is best if you want to avoid the crowds.

Walking through the market, you’ll see colorful produce and spices, smell the divine scent of local lavender, and marvel at an array of meats and cheeses.

Hitting up this market once or twice a week was one of my favorite things about living in Antibes.

Most vendors take cards, but you’ll absolutely want to have some cash on hand if you want to do some shopping.

Local’s Tip: While you’re there, don’t forget to sample a delicious regional treat called socca. It’s basically a hot chickpea pancake with spices on it.



Wander Around Old Town

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With its charming cobblestone streets, strolling around Vieille Ville (Old Town) will leave you feeling like you’re inside the village from Beauty and the Beast

You’ll easily spend hours just walking around browsing shops, relaxing at cafes, and looking at the beautiful old architecture and streets covered in beautiful flowers.  



Visit the Picasso Museum

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Art lovers will absolutely want to give themselves at least an hour and a half to check out the Picasso Museum

The museum has 245 works by Picasso!

Besides all the seriously impressive Picasso sketches, paintings, and sculptures, they also have impressive works by Mark Rothko and Nicolas de Staël.  

There’s also a beautiful garden, where you’ll see some modern statues, and one of the best views of the Mediterranean. 

Fun Fact: The area they built the museum on was originally home to the Greek Acropolis of Antipolis.


Things to Do During the Afternoon in Antibes


Enjoy a Leisurely Lunch

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Antibes has a delicious food scene and has tons of great options for a long lunch. 

Below are some of my favorite spots to enjoy a bite to eat and a cheeky afternoon Aperol Spritz or glass of vino.



Check Out Le Nomade

Antibes, South of France - Le Nomad - Cote d'Azur

Le Nomade is a giant white statue of a man gazing out at the sea, created by Bastion Saint Jaume. 

My favorite part is that the statue is on Les Remparts.

So during your visit, you’ll be taking in views of the local beach, the sea, and all the boats floating in Port Vauban, including some seriously impressive mega-yachts. 

Local’s Tip: ​​In the summers, they even have a little outdoor lounge set up next to the statue to compete with cocktails and appetizers.

It’s perfect to visit for a drink, but I’d recommend skipping the food, as it did not impress me.



Hit Up the Beach

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Since most of the beaches on the riviera are mainly large rocks and dirt, or lots of pebbles, the sandy beaches of Antibes really stand out.

Depending on your mood, you can either hit up a beach club or the local beach. 

I prefer the local beach, because it’s free and way more low key.

Plus, you might even make friends with some locals (I did).

Just head to Plage de la Gravette, near Port Vauban to enjoy this chill sandy beach. 

If you’re looking for a more posh sunbathing experience, you can head to one of the many beach clubs in Antibes.

These are a few of the most popular:



Cool Off With Some Gelato

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Literally my favorite thing about this town is the gelato from Gelateria Del Porto.

I still dream about how creamy and flavorful their Nutella and salted carmel flavors are.

And their sorbet is so fresh—I love the peach and the strawberry.

The line can get pretty long, but it moves fast, and the gelato is totally worth the wait.

You’ll want to order at least two scoops to cool off with after your time at the beach.

Local’s Tip: Fair warning, the shop is only open during the summer, so plan your trip accordingly.


Things to Do at Night in Antibes


Indulge in a Delightful Supper

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You’ll absolutely want to relax with a delicious dinner after the day you’ve had exploring.

Depending on what you’re in the mood for, these are some of the best places to dine:



Chill Out With Drinks

Absinthe Bar in Antibes, French Riviera

Antibes doesn’t have a super hectic nightclub scene, but the bar scene more than makes up for it. 

These are some of the best spots to indulge in a few cocktails.

Bonus points if you try the local favorite, Pastis.


Wrapping Up One Day in Antibes

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As you’re ending your day in town, I suggest grabbing one more serving of gelato for the road, especially if you’ve got a sweet tooth like me!

Trust me, if you don’t, you’ll be craving it again soon.

I also hope you end your day wanting to come back to spend more time in Antibes, and maybe even feeling just in love with it as I am. 

It’s truly the most magical town on the riviera!

Let me know in the comments below how your visit goes, and if you’ve discovered anywhere new that I should check out.

 

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