According to forum posts, many travelers recommend using Nice as a base due to its central location and excellent transport links. From Nice, you can easily access other Riviera towns such as Antibes, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and the hilltop village of St Paul de Vence.

Travelers have called out that day trips to Monaco, Eze, and Menton are particularly worthwhile. For instance, combining a visit to Eze with Monaco or Menton offers a mix of scenic views and cultural experiences. Additionally, Villefranche-sur-Mer is highlighted as a must-visit for its charming beach and proximity to Cap Ferrat.

For those considering longer stays, some users suggested spending a couple of nights in other towns like Antibes or Marseille to fully explore the area. Antibes offers sandy beaches and a quaint old town, while Marseille provides a vibrant city experience.

Travelers suggest renting a car for flexibility, especially for visiting less accessible inland villages or when public transport schedules are less convenient. However, for coastal towns, trains and buses are efficient and economical options.

According to forum posts, a popular itinerary suggestion for the Cote d'Azur includes using Nice as a home base. From there, travelers can explore Cannes, Gourdon, and Saint Paul de Vence in one day, followed by Eze and Menton on another day. Additional days can be spent visiting Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and the Ephrussi de Rothschild Villa and Gardens in Cap-Ferrat.

Some travelers mentioned that public transportation is a viable option, recommending the bus for direct routes such as from Nice to Eze village, especially on busy days like December 31st due to limited services. Using trains for longer stretches, such as from Monaco to Menton, was also suggested for efficiency.

For activities, exploring the local beaches, villas, and historical sites is highly recommended. The Rothschild and Kerylos villas are must-visit locations, and walking the sentier littoral at Cap Ferrat offers scenic views. Additionally, the exotic garden in Eze provides spectacular vistas.

Some users have suggested that staying in Nice provides easy access to both public transport and local attractions, making it an excellent central point for day trips along the Riviera.

According to forum posts, the French Riviera is serviced mainly by TER (Transport Express Régional) trains for regional travel. Other options include TGVs and Intercités for long-distance routes, which might require reservations and are generally not necessary for travel within the Riviera due to the efficient connectivity provided by TER trains.

Travelers have highlighted several specific train lines useful for exploring the Riviera. The Ligne 3 connects Les Arcs, St Raphaël, Cannes, Antibes, and Nice, whereas Ligne 4 links Grasse, Cannes, Nice, and Vintimille. These lines are frequent, inexpensive, and provide a scenic route along the coast, making them a preferred choice for both convenience and the views.

Forum contributors noted that TER tickets are flexible and allow for hopping on and off at various stops en route on the same ticket, a feature that enhances their utility for tourists exploring multiple towns in a single day. Tickets for these trains can be purchased on the day of travel, and the SNCF Connect app facilitates ticket purchases and storage.

Some users emphasized the scenic value of train travel in the region, particularly noting routes like the Train des Merveilles and Train des Pignes, which offer spectacular mountain views and are an attraction in themselves beyond their practical transit function.

According to forum posts, the Hotel Belles Rives in Juan-les-Pins is highly recommended for its proximity to a sandy beach and its glamorous setting. Travelers have also praised the Royal Riviera in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, noting its private beach with imported white sand and its luxurious amenities.

Some travelers mentioned that while the Hotel Splendid in Cannes offers excellent proximity to the old town and sandy beaches, higher-end hotels like the Majestic may charge extra for using private beaches. The Royal Riviera, on the other hand, is appreciated for its comprehensive luxury without additional charges for beach access.

For those prioritizing a blend of convenience and scenic locations, the Hotel Welcome in Villefranche-sur-Mer has been highlighted for its charming town and sandy beach, although some users noted its higher pricing.

According to forum posts, travelers can take the #82 or #602 bus from Nice to reach Eze. These buses are frequently mentioned as reliable options for getting to Eze Village from Nice.

Some travelers suggested using Uber for a more direct and possibly quicker journey to Eze. Uber is noted for being a common choice for trips between Nice and Eze, with vehicles frequently available for both drop-offs and pickups at Eze.

For those considering a combination of train and bus, the #83 bus connects Eze-sur-Mer (the lower part near the sea) to Eze Village. This bus is less frequent, making timing important when planning the journey.

Travelers have called out that buses might be crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's recommended to catch buses from their starting points like the Vauban bus station in Nice to increase the chances of getting a seat.

According to forum posts, if sandy beaches are a priority, Antibes, particularly Juan-les-Pins, is recommended over Nice, which has beaches with large smooth rocks known as galets. This makes Antibes more suitable for family beach outings.

Some travelers noted that Nice offers a vibrant city atmosphere with a variety of cultural and sporting events, extensive shopping options, and a busy vibe. Antibes, on the other hand, is described as more relaxed, with charming old town areas, museums, and good transportation options.

Travelers have called out that both cities are well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore the broader Côte d’Azur region. However, Nice is often highlighted as a central transportation hub with more frequent train and bus services, which could be a significant advantage for travelers looking to do extensive regional exploration.

For those seeking a more laid-back vacation with sandy beaches and less crowded surroundings, Antibes is preferable. Conversely, for visitors who want a more dynamic urban experience with easy access to other Riviera destinations, Nice is recommended.

According to forum posts, many travelers recommend Antibes/Juan les Pins for families, noting its relaxed pace, sandy beaches, and child-friendly amenities. Accommodations here offer options for families, including hotels with family suites and a variety of rental homes. Some travelers highlighted the convenience of aparthotels, which provide apartment amenities with hotel services like reception desks.

Travelers have called out the availability of child-friendly beach clubs and nanny services in the region, enhancing the family-friendly appeal of the area. The beaches in Nice were mentioned as being less suitable due to their rocky nature, making areas like Juan les Pins more appealing for families with young children.

For many users, booking early is crucial, especially for peak season. Some noted it’s wise to start looking and booking accommodations up to a year in advance, as family-friendly options can sell out quickly during the summer months.

According to forum posts, Villefranche-sur-Mer is well-connected by public transport, making nearby attractions easily accessible. The #15 Lignes d'Azur bus and local trains can be used to explore nearby areas such as Cap Ferrat and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. The #82 bus from Nice offers a route along the higher road, providing scenic views.

Some travelers have recommended visiting Cap Ferrat for its beautiful coastal walks and the Villa et Jardin Ephrussi de Rothschild, a stunning mansion with magnificent gardens. Additionally, the picturesque fishing village itself offers a charming old town and beach area that is highly praised by visitors.

For those interested in further exploration, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is highlighted for its natural beauty and serene environment. Links to specific sites for more detailed information on trails and attractions were shared by users, aiding in travel planning and maximizing the visitor experience in the region.