Cite d'Azur Cruises

Explore the Enchanting Côte d'Azur on Your Next Cruise

Welcome to the Côte d'Azur, or the French Riviera, a stunning stretch of Mediterranean coastline renowned for its glamorous resorts, azure waters, and vibrant culture. Famous for charming towns like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, the Côte d'Azur is the perfect destination for a luxurious cruise experience. Did you know that the Côte d'Azur was one of the first modern tourist destinations in the 19th century, attracting celebrities and artists from all over the world? Sailing along this picturesque coast allows you to indulge in exquisite cuisine, explore historical sites, and bask in the breathtaking landscapes of the French Riviera.

Top Major Cruise Lines to Côte d'Azur

• Cunard: With a fleet of 4 ships, Cunard offers itineraries to the Côte d'Azur aboard Queen Mary 2. Known for its elegant and timeless cruising experience, Cunard features exceptional onboard dining, luxurious accommodations, and a strong emphasis on formal etiquette. Departures typically occur from major international ports such as Southampton and New York, providing easy access for cruisers ready to explore this beautiful coastline.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 21 ships, Norwegian has 7 vessels—including Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Getaway—that offer itineraries to Côte d'Azur. Famous for their Freestyle Cruising concept, Norwegian allows guests to enjoy flexible dining options and diverse onboard activities, catering to every traveler's desires. Departures generally take place from international ports like Barcelona and Rome, making it convenient for cruisers from around the world.
• Celebrity Cruises: Operating a fleet of 15 ships, Celebrity Cruises features 6 vessels—such as Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Reflection—offering itineraries that include stops in the Côte d'Azur. Renowned for its modern luxury experience, Celebrity offers award-winning dining, stylish design, and top-rated entertainment options. Most cruises depart from international ports like Civitavecchia (Rome) and Barcelona, ensuring smooth connections to this iconic region.
• Virgin Voyages: This innovative cruise line has a fleet of 4 ships, 3 of which—Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, and Resilient Lady—provide itineraries to the Côte d'Azur. Virgin Voyages is known for its trendy atmosphere and focus on immersive experiences, featuring unique onboard programming, artisanal dining, and a more relaxed cruising vibe. Departures typically occur from international ports like Barcelona, allowing easy access to the stunning views along the French Riviera.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruising Opportunities

• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet size of 11 ships, Viking has 7 vessels—including Viking Neptune and Viking Jupiter—offering itineraries to the Côte d'Azur. Known for its intimate ships and focus on cultural enrichment, Viking Ocean encourages guests to engage with local communities and enjoy authentic Mediterranean experiences. Departures typically happen from major international ports like Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome), ensuring smooth access to the Riviera’s charm.
• Explora Journeys: A new luxury cruise line with a fleet of 2, Explora has both of its ships—EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II—offering itineraries to the Côte d'Azur. Known for their emphasis on wellness and sustainability, Explora provides an immersive cruise experience focused on relaxation and rejuvenation. Departures generally take place from international ports like Barcelona and Rome, creating a hassle-free start to your Côte d'Azur adventure.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea offers itineraries to the Côte d'Azur on 6 of its vessels, including Silver Spirit and Silver Ray. Silversea excels in providing all-inclusive luxury and personalised service, ensuring an unforgettable cruising experience for guests. Departures usually occur from key international ports such as Lisbon and Civitavecchia, making it easy to head directly into the heart of the French Riviera.
• Oceania Cruises: Operating a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania features 6 vessels—such as Nautica and Sirena—offering itineraries to the Côte d'Azur. Oceania is celebrated for its culinary excellence, with gourmet dining options and immersive port experiences that enhance each journey. Departures typically take place from major international ports like Barcelona and Civitavecchia, ensuring smooth transitions to the glamorous coast.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara offers itineraries to the Côte d'Azur aboard its 4 ships, including Azamara Onward and Azamara Journey. Known for their immersive travel experiences and extended stays at ports, Azamara allows guests to fully experience the local culture and sights. Departures generally occur from international ports like Barcelona and Lisbon, making it easy to cruise to the heart of the French Riviera.

Top Harbours to Explore in the Côte d'Azur

• Monte Carlo: Famous for its opulence, Monte Carlo is home to the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo and the lavish Prince's Palace. While docked, visit the luxurious marina, explore the historic district, and take a stroll through the beautiful Gardens of Saint Martin. Be sure to enjoy a coffee at one of the trendy cafés while soaking in the glamorous atmosphere!
• Villefranche-sur-Mer: A picturesque town nestled between the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, Villefranche-sur-Mer offers stunning views and a charming old town. Cruise passengers can explore the cobblestone streets, visit the historic Citadel, or relax at the beach along the sparkling shoreline. The town’s vibrant market is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and local delicacies!
• Saint-Tropez: Renowned as a celebrity hotspot, Saint-Tropez boasts stunning beaches, luxurious boutiques, and a lively nightlife scene. While in port, visit the famous Pampelonne Beach, stroll through the quaint old town, or take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade. Make sure to savour the local cuisine at beachfront restaurants for an unforgettable dining experience!
• Cannes: Home to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, this glamorous city is famous for its upscale shopping, sandy beaches, and beautiful promenades. Cruise visitors can explore the Boulevard de la Croisette, visit the Palais des Festivals, or unwind on the beach while enjoying a refreshing drink. The charming Le Suquet district is also worth a visit for its stunning views of the bay!
• Toulon: With its picturesque harbour and rich history, Toulon is a lovely stop on your Côte d'Azur journey. While docked, explore the city's naval museum, stroll through the bustling markets, and visit the stunning Saint-Marie-Majeure Cathedral. The nearby Mont Faron offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline!

Best Times to Cruise to the Côte d'Azur

The prime time to cruise to the Côte d'Azur is from April to October, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. This lovely period features pleasant weather that is ideal for beach outings, sightseeing, and outdoor events. The November to March timeframe may bring cooler and wetter conditions (averaging around 10°C to 15°C), but this season allows for fewer crowds and availability, making it a perfect time for those preferring a quieter experience.

Costs of Cruising to the Côte d'Azur

A typical one-week cruise to the Côte d'Azur usually costs around $1200, while a two-week cruise may start at approximately $2200. For those keen on luxurious experiences, expect prices to start around $4000 for a week. Dining costs in the Côte d'Azur can vary, with meals averaging $20 to $40, and drinks typically ranging from $4 to $10, allowing you to indulge in the rich local flavours without breaking the bank!

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If cruising to the Côte d'Azur has captured your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next adventure:

• Amalfi Coast: Known for its stunning cliffside towns and breathtaking views, the Amalfi Coast offers charming villages, delicious cuisine, and opportunities for hiking and exploration.
• Balearic Islands: Comprising Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca, the Balearic Islands feature gorgeous beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a mix of cultural experiences for all interests.
• Adriatic Sea: This beautiful region offers picturesque coastlines, historic towns, and rich culture, perfect for immersing yourself in Mediterranean life.
• Canary Islands: A tropical paradise featuring stunning beaches, warm climate, and unique landscapes, the Canary Islands provide opportunities for relaxation and adventure.
• Spanish Coast: With charming cities like Marbella and Barcelona, the Spanish Coast offers stunning urban attractions, picturesque beaches, and delicious local cuisine, making it perfect for your next cruise.

Ready to set sail on a captivating journey through the Côte d'Azur? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and unlock the beauty and charm of this magnificent region!