Best French Riviera Small Ship Cruises for 2025-2026 by Adventure Life

10 Best French Riviera Cruises for 2025-2026

Swim in the clear waters of the Mediterranean

5 Best Luxury French Riviera Cruises for 2025-2026

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea – with Smithsonian Journeys	$6,720	8		Explore the French and Italian Rivieras on an 8-day cruise aboard Le Bougainville. Visit UNESCO sites and cultural landmarks in Port Vendres, Marseille, Nice, Portofino, Porto Venere, and Livorno. Enjoy expert-guided excursions from Carcassonne’s medieval fortress to Pisa’s Leaning Tower, experiencing the art, history, and coastal landscapes of the Mediterranean. 0
Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea – with Smithsonian Journeys	$7,450	8	Oct 02, 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, Portofino, Porto Venere, and Livorno. Enjoy expert-guided excursions from Carcassonne’s medieval fortress to Pisa’s Leaning Tower, experiencing the art, history, and coastal landscapes of the Mediterranean. 0
Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba – with Smithsonian Journeys	$7,790	8	May 13, 2026	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. 0
Idyllic Rhone	$11,590	8	Jul 06, 2025	Set sail on an 8-day cruise from Nice to Lyon on the Scenic Sapphire, exploring the Rhone and Saone rivers. Experience France’s rich heritage through its historic cities, medieval villages, and culinary delights amidst stunning landscapes. 0
Grand Voyage: Malaga to Cannes	$4,220	16		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 towns along the Spanish and French Rivieras to the stylish and romantic city of Cannes. Relax aboard the Star Flyer and enjoy the life of a true sailor. 0

3 Best French Riviera Cruise Deals for 2025-2026

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Epicurean Immersion	$8,899	17	Jul 12, 2025	Cruise the Mediterranean for 17 days, exploring iconic cities like Naples, Rome, Capri, Nice, and Barcelona. Savor exclusive culinary experiences, including truffle hunting and wine tasting. Immerse yourself in history, culture, and stunning landscapes on this unforgettable journey aboard World Navigator. 0
A Mediterranean Masterpiece	$13,595	13	Jun 30, 2026	Join a 13-day cruise aboard the Douglas Mawson through Spain and Italy, starting in Barcelona with a Flamenco show and visiting landmarks like Gaudí's Sagrada Familia. Explore coastal towns and the French Riviera, and end in Rome, immersing in both countries' rich culture, art, and history. 0
Vintage Coves and Isles	$6,799	13	Jul 28, 2025	Join a 13-day trip from Barcelona to Athens aboard World Navigator, exploring France, Italy, and Greece. Discover Barcelona’s architecture, visit Roses and Cadaques, and enjoy a winery tour. Explore Sete, Saint-Tropez, and Cinque Terre. From Livorno, visit Florence and Pisa, then explore Rome, Sorrento, and Lipari. End in Crete, Hydra, and Athens. 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.