Antibes: A Timeless Treasure on the Côte d’Azur

Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea’s azure waters and Provence’s rolling hills lies Antibes, a gem of the French Riviera that enchants visitors with its irresistible blend of history, art, and culinary traditions.

©Christine van der Linden and ©Hans Zeeger

A Journey Through the Centuries

As you wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the old town, you are taking a journey through more than 2,500 years of history. The Greeks founded Antibes as a trading post, and the location has undergone a fascinating architectural, cultural, and culinary evolution.

©Christine van der Linden and ©Hans Zeeger

The ancient ramparts tell stories of bygone eras, while the vibrant markets and charming squares reflect thriving contemporary life. This harmonious fusion of old and new makes Antibes so special.

©Christine van der Linden and ©Hans Zeeger

In Picasso’s Footsteps

Art enthusiasts will be delighted to discover that Pablo Picasso experienced a significant creative period here. Château Grimaldi, where the master stayed and worked for two months, has been transformed into a museum showcasing some of his most intriguing works.

As you move through the halls, imagine how Antibes’ Mediterranean light and serene beauty stimulated Picasso’s imagination. It’s no wonder many artists have found inspiration in this enchanting environment over the years.

Picasso Museum
Place Mariejol, Antibes
Closed Mondays

©Christine van der Linden and ©Hans Zeeger

Discovering Culinary Treasures

A visit to Antibes would not be complete without sampling the local specialties that embody the essence of Provençal cuisine. At Veziano Bakery, Jean-Paul Veziano honours a family tradition that has persisted for nearly a century. His pissaladière – a delicious onion and anchovy tart – is a true flavour sensation that reflects the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Jean-Paul’s passion for baking began when he was just 12 years old, and since then, he has refined the art of breadmaking to perfection. Like many local artisans, he adapts his techniques to the whims of the mistral wind, resulting in breads and pastries with unparalleled flavour and texture.

©Christine van der Linden and ©Hans Zeeger

Boulangerie Veziano
2 Rue de la Pompe,
06600 Antibes
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays

©Christine van der Linden and ©Hans Zeeger

The Mystique of Absinthe

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Frederic Rosenfelder’s Absinthe Bar offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of this legendary drink. Once favoured by artists like Van Gogh and Toulouse-Lautrec, absinthe carries a rich history intertwined with creativity and inspiration.

With more than 60 different absinthe varieties, Frederic invites visitors to experience the ritual of absinthe preparation: a sugar cube slowly dissolving in water, transforming the potent spirit into a refreshing drink with complex aromas.

Bar à Absinthe
25 Cours Masséna
06600 Antibes

©Christine van der Linden and ©Hans Zeeger

The Perfect Destination for Every Traveller

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for an idyllic place to relax, Antibes has something for everyone. The combination of a picturesque old town, a vibrant marina, and beautiful beaches makes it a versatile destination that continues to fascinate.

©Christine van der Linden and ©Hans Zeeger

As the sun slowly sets, casting a golden glow over the town, you’ll understand why Antibes holds such a special place in the heart of Provence. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, tradition and innovation go hand in hand, and where every street and alley promises a new adventure.

Check out Christine and Hans’ “Nice To Know” video for an engaging glimpse into this beautiful town!

©Christine van der Linden and ©Hans Zeeger

Practical information

For more information, visit the Office of Tourism and Congress Centre of Antibes Juan-les-Pins or review their website.

2 bis, rue Fontvieill
06600 Antibes
Telephone: +33 (0) 4 22 10 60 10

More to do: Walk on Cap d’Antibes and discover this jewel on the glittering Côte d’Azur.

Destination Antibes

Time for Lunch in Antibes

Stop at Le Café Brun inside the ramparts of Antibes’ old town. Ben and Bea James own this bar and restaurant. They roll up their sleeves in the kitchen and front of house and work alongside their team to deliver delicious, creative food and drinks. The menu at Café Brun is designed for sharing moments with loved ones: Mediterranean tapas and abundant sharing boards of carefully chosen charcuterie and cheeses.

Le Café Brun (website)
8 Rue Aubernon
6600 Antibes

Roast Beetroot and Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Try this easy bruschetta recipe as an appetizer. The delicious spread is made with beetroot and goat cheese and served on lightly toasted sourdough bread. 

Check out this recipe

Accras de Morue - Créole Salt Cod Fritters

“A staple dish in the Caribbean where I worked for five years as Head Chef of a fish restaurant, Accras De Morue are crispy, puffy, tender fritters with a little spice. Great with cocktails or a glass of wine!” ~ Head Chef Baptiste

Check out this recipe

Quinoa Winter Salad with Beets, Squash and Feta

A tasteful winter salad recipe created by Bea the owner of Café Brun.

Check out this recipe

Seafood Rigatoni with Prawns and Mussels

A flavorful seafood recipe curated by Ben and Bea the owners of Cafe Bruns in Antibes.

Check out this recipe

Full day Bandol & Cassis Discovery Wine Tour from Marseille

Begin your journey in the medieval village of Le Castellet, perched elegantly atop a wooded hill overlooking lush vineyards. Next, venture into the renowned Bandol wine region.

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Christine van der Linden

With a passion for storytelling, Christine has found her place in the world of communication. As a child, she loved playing 'news anchor,' and now, as a freelance communications strategist, she helps people and businesses share their brand stories and get media attention. Find out more about her work at CMVDL Consultancy.

Christine's love for France began during her student years when she worked as a tour guide for active holidays in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and interned in Paris. Later, she worked for Atout France, the French tourism development agency. She discovered the most beautiful hidden spots, charming restaurants, and the best cheese shops where you can buy the tastiest cheeses.

Now, she splits her time between Amsterdam and Cannes and runs her own YouTube channel, @Nice To Know News. Working as both a communications strategist and reporter, she is always on the lookout for inspiring stories. Together with photographer and videographer Hans Zeegers, she creates short reports on feel-good and lifestyle topics in Provence and the Côte d'Azur. These videos have a journalistic approach, based on trends, facts, and interviews.

Discover Nice To Know News, these videos inspire, amaze, and make you smile.

Follow Christine's updates on her Linkedin profile Christine Van Der Linden, Business consultant, Communications strategist, Reporter.