Looking for a Walking Tour of Antibes

One Saturday, I had the great pleasure to join a walking tour of Antibes. I already know a lot about Antibes’ history, including the buildings, museums, art and attractions, so I was interested in joining this tour and learning more.

Demand for the tour was incredible; the tour was 10x oversubscribed, proving Antibes’ popularity with tourists and residents. So, I felt very fortunate to have a spot for the morning tour.

Via Nissa hosted the tour. Based in Nice, their team is comprised of historians, linguists and archaeologists who have specialist knowledge about archaeology, art, history, culture and language. Contributor blog post by: Access Riviera

Walking Tour in Antibes

Via Nissa (website)
Tours in French translated in English
The tours last approximately 1 hour

What to See in Antibes

As Access Riviera points out, she discovers something new (or old) every time she visits Old Antibes to see.

Antibes Old Town ©Access Riviera

Antibes is one of the only medieval cities on the Mediterranean that has been nicely preserved. Surrounded by ramparts dating from the 10th century, the old town retains a village sensation inside the walls. Conveniently located on the French Riviera between must-see Nice and Cannes, Antibes is a relatively small centre. Outside the one-time defensive walls is Port Vauban. Billed as “Europe’s largest marina,” this is where vessels of every size and shape moor – from superyachts to fishing boats. Read more Antibes Insider tips.

Picasso’s Antibes. For art lovers, Antibes is the place to trace the footsteps of Pablo Picasso and his flamboyant lifestyle along the French Riviera. The Musée Picasso, France’s first museum dedicated to the artist, stands tall inside the 16th-century ramparts of the restored Château Grimaldi. The site once belonged to the powerful Grimaldi family of Monaco. Picasso arrived in Antibes in 1946 as a young and inspiring artist for a six-month stay. He lived and worked inside the chateau, creating paintings, and sculpting. It was here that he created his notable Joie de Vivre in 1946.

©Perfectly Provence

It’s a quick stroll along the top of the ramparts to see “Le Nomade”, an 8-metre high, cast iron sculpture by Catalan artist Jaume Paume. It is well worth the walk for the view of the old town from that perspective. Challenge your kids to some photo creativity with this substantial open-air sculpture. The oversized sculpture is fun for kids and makes for great family photo-ops. There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Antibes.

©Perfectly Provence

Obscure, perhaps, but those curious about the area’s history might follow Jemma’s footsteps to the archives. Of cours, it’s unlikely that a trip to the municipal archives in Antibes would be on many (or any) visitor’s to-do list. However, for me, the chance to see parchments dating from the 1300s was irresistible. Read more.

Where to stay in Antibes

Set in a quiet residential neighbourhood, five (5) bedroom La Calado is a quick walk to Antibes’ Old Town. This beautifully refurbished holiday rental has all you need for a stay on the Côte d’Azur. Initially constructed in 1926, the meticulously restored villa maintains its classic elegance. Spread out over four floors; the spacious home has plenty of private corners. Take me there.

Clos des Vignes, in Old Town Antibes, is a charming two-bedroom rental on the French Riviera. Only steps from tempting boutiques and a selection of restaurants, the house is a peaceful escape. Shop for supplies at the Provencal farmer’s market, or spend the day at one of the nearby beaches before heading back to your private terrace with seaside views for cocktails and dinner al fresco. Book your spot.