The French Riviera on a Budget: Affordable Towns, Free Sights, and Train Travel

While the French Riviera is known for luxury superyachts and high-end resorts, you can easily explore it affordably with smart planning. 1. Base Yourself in Nice or Antibes Opt for budget-friendly apartments or hostels in Nice, using its central location and extensive public transport network as a base. 2. Scenic Coastal Train Rides The TER rail line hugs the Mediterranean coastline, offering inexpensive 20-minute rides to Villefranche-sur-Mer, Menton, and Monaco. Travel Tip: Pick up fresh baguettes, local goat cheese, and olives from market stalls for scenic beach picnics. Soak up Riviera elegance, azure waters, and golden sunshine on a reasonable budget.