10 Best French Riviera Cruises for 2025-2026

Name: French Riviera Tours & Travel
Brand: Adventure Life
Rating: 4.8 (380 reviews)

Wander through the vibrant streets of Barcelona

A Solar Eclipse at Sea: Voyage Across the Western Mediterranean - with Smithsonian Journeys

Embark on a 9-day Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona to Nice aboard Le Dumont-d'Urville. Visit Palma de Mallorca's stunning coves, and explore Mahon’s historic charm. See Sardinia’s medieval town of Alghero, followed by the scenic beaches of Ile-Rousse in Corsica. Discover Napoleon’s legacy in Portoferraio and more.

Explore historic Bonifacio atop the cliffs of Corsica

Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba – with Smithsonian Journeys

Valletta - Nice
8 Days from $7,690

Explore the heart of the Mediterranean on this 8-day Mediterranean Island Cruise with Smithsonian Journeys from Valletta to Nice aboard Le Bougainville. Discover Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba's historical civilizations that left mark on these islands' language, cuisine, art, and architecture.

10 Best Luxury French Riviera Cruises for 2025-2026

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
A Solar Eclipse at Sea: Voyage Across the Western Mediterranean - with Smithsonian Journeys	$7940	9	Aug 11, 2026	Embark on a 9-day Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona to Nice aboard Le Dumont-d'Urville. Visit Palma de Mallorca's stunning coves, and explore … 0
Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba – with Smithsonian Journeys	$7690	8	May 26, 2025	Explore the heart of the Mediterranean on this 8-day Mediterranean Island Cruise with Smithsonian Journeys from Valletta to Nice aboard Le … 0
Idyllic Rhone	$11590	8	May 3, 2025	Enjoy an exceptional Scenic Culinaire experience as you sail from Tarascon to Lyon along the Rhône and Saone rivers aboard the luxurious Scenic … 0
Grand Voyage: Malaga to Cannes	$3640	16	Apr 25, 2025	Sail to an impressive collection of ports on this 16-day Grand Voyage, from the stunning Balearic Islands off Eastern Spain to quixotic tiny port … 0
Grand Voyage: Lisbon to Cannes	$3640	16	Apr 18, 2025	Embark on this 16-day cruise from Lisbon to Cannes aboard Star Flyer. Explore the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula and the Mediterranean Sea. … 0
Mediterranean Masterpiece	$13595	13	Jun 30, 2026	Take a 13-day Mediterranean trip aboard the Douglas Mawson, beginning in Barcelona with a Flamenco event and visits to key sites like the Sagrada … 0
Isle of Beauty, Italian shores & Malta	$7510	11	Aug 19, 2026	Embark on this 11-day cruise across the Mediterranean from Nice to Valletta aboard Le Dumont-d'Urville. Explore Corsica’s charming ports, … 0
Malaga to Cannes	$2280	9	Apr 25, 2025	Sail to an impressive collection of ports on this 9-day cruise from the stunning Balearic Islands off Eastern Spain to quixotic tiny port towns along … 0
Epicurean Immersion	$14399	17	Jul 12, 2025	Cruise the Mediterranean for 17 days, exploring iconic cities like Naples, Rome, Capri, Nice, and Barcelona. Savor exclusive culinary experiences, … 0
Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea – with Smithsonian Journeys	$6720	8	Oct 2, 2025	Explore the French and Italian Rivieras on an 8-day cruise aboard Le Laperouse. Visit UNESCO sites and cultural landmarks in Sete, Marseille, Nice, … 0

Riviera Travel Guide

Relax on the beaches of the French Riviera

Top Mediterranean Cruise Ports

The temperate climate of the Mediterranean makes it a delightful destination to visit on a luxury cruise. Coupled with explorations of historic cities and archaeological sites and plenty of active day excursions, from swimming and snorkeling in turquoise waters to hiking and biking around the ancient ruins and rolling valleys, you don’t have to travel beyond the ports to find a world of adventure.

Discover the French Riviera: A Mediterranean Gem

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, is a stunning Mediterranean coastline in the southeastern corner of France, stretching from Menton near the Italian border to the glamorous city of Cannes. Renowned for its azure waters, sunny climate, and luxurious lifestyle, the French Riviera has been a favorite destination for artists, celebrities, and tourists alike for over a century.

Key highlights include the glamorous city of Nice, with its Promenade des Anglais and vibrant markets; the opulent principality of Monaco, home to the famous Monte Carlo Casino and the Grand Prix; and the picturesque town of Saint-Tropez, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. The region also offers charming villages like Èze and Grasse, known for their medieval architecture and perfume production, respectively.

With its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and high-end sophistication, the French Riviera remains one of the most alluring destinations in the world.

France Overview

Whether visiting the beautiful countryside or enjoying the vibrant cities, you are sure to find a region of France that will encourage you to return again and again. The Mediterranean coast, ever-fashionable Paris, and the traditional towns of the Seine River highlight this exciting country.

How to Choose a Mediterranean Cruise

The highlights and what to expect on the various Mediterranean cruises. This article also touches on the various destinations you can visit, some of Adventure Life's different ships, and benefits and drawbacks of trip lengths.

Highlights of the French Riviera

Nice's Promenade des Anglais: Stroll along Nice's famous seafront boulevard, lined with palm trees, luxury hotels, and stunning views of the Mediterranean. Visit the vibrant Cours Saleya market for fresh flowers, produce, and local crafts.
Monaco and Monte Carlo: Explore the opulent principality of Monaco, renowned for its lavish lifestyle, the Monte Carlo Casino, and the annual Grand Prix. Don't miss the Prince's Palace and the Oceanographic Museum.
Saint-Tropez Beaches: Relax on the sandy shores of Saint-Tropez, a hotspot for celebrities and sun-seekers. Pampelonne Beach is famous for its vibrant beach clubs, while the old port area offers charming cafes and boutiques.
Cannes and the Film Festival: Visit Cannes, known for its prestigious film festival held each May. Walk along La Croisette, a glamorous boulevard lined with upscale shops, restaurants, and luxury hotels.
Èze Village: Discover the medieval charm of Èze, perched high above the sea. The village offers stunning panoramic views, cobblestone streets, and the Exotic Garden, filled with rare plant species.
Antibes and Picasso Museum: Explore the historic town of Antibes, home to the Picasso Museum housed in the Château Grimaldi. The town also features beautiful beaches and a vibrant yacht marina.
Grasse Perfume Capital: Visit Grasse, known as the world's perfume capital. Tour renowned perfume factories like Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard, and stroll through its picturesque old town.
Sailing and Yacht Cruises: Experience the Riviera from the sea with a yacht cruise. Sail past glamorous coastal towns, anchor in secluded bays, and enjoy water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Îles de Lérins: Just off the coast of Cannes, visit the Îles de Lérins. Explore Sainte-Marguerite Island, known for its fort and tranquil forests, and Saint-Honorat Island, home to a working monastery and vineyards.
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild: Located in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this stunning villa is surrounded by magnificent gardens. Explore its luxurious rooms, filled with art and antiques, and enjoy the breathtaking views over the Mediterranean.