Visiting the French Riviera in November

Visiting the French Riviera in November

The French Riviera is synonymous with turquoise sea, fragrant lavender fields and the winding, cobbled streets of rural villages. It’s also famed for its star-studded events, including the Cannes Film Festival and Monte-Carlo Grand Prix. But for those in the know, the French Rivera in November is the best time to visit to partake in some of the lesser known, authentic celebrations that occur throughout the dreamy French region.

What’s the weather like in the French Riviera in November?

With less rain than the month of October yet cooler than the balmy summer highs, the French Riviera November weather is an inviting mix of Mediterranean warmth and refreshing sea breeze. Temperatures average around 16°C and long-sleeves may be required in the evening, but compared to other regions of France, winter in the Côte d'Azur is relatively mild.

The French Riviera is a popular stretch of coastline that extends east from Menton and Monaco to Théoule-sur-Mer and up into the Southern Alps. A health retreat in the 18th century, the area later attracted aristocrats, artists and the 1960s jet set. Picturesque villages, vineyards and pristine beaches dot the land, from Menton’s vibrant splash of hillside colour to the chic relaxation of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and the elegant, white-washed villas of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.

Cannes

Of all the Riviera villages in France, Cannes is arguably the star. A haven for superyachts to anchor off for the summer Film Festival, by winter the tourists have gone and left in their wake solitude, space and availability in all the best restaurants. Shop on the Rue d’Antibes, step inside the Gothic-style Notre-Dame d'Espérance church and cruise Boulevard de la Croisette to truly experience this year-round resort town.

Wander through Le Suquet

November may be low season in Cannes, but it’s prime time to wander through medieval Le Suquet. Quintessential steep cobbled alleys are lined with fresh produce market stalls and candy-coloured cottages. Dating back to Roman times it was once the fishermen’s residential area. Today, Le Suquet is home to jazz bars, indie stores and bistros serving Provençal dishes. Drop anchor at Vieux Port marina and climb the 109 steps to the hilltop Musée de la Castre for a breath-taking collection of Riviera landscape art.

Attend the Cannes Dance Festival

Celebrated every two years, the Cannes Dance Festival is a meeting place for the world of contemporary and current dance. Founded in 1984, the biennial event is held at the end of November and hosts internationally renowned companies alongside emerging talents from the choreographic scene.

Monte-Carlo

Glitz and glamour is Monte-Carlo’s calling card. One of the four ‘quartiers’ of Monaco, the Monte-Carlo district immediately surrounds the Casino de Monte-Carlo, the area’s beating heart. Long recognised as a playground for the rich and famous, the Opera House is a must-visit, while the International Sporting Club is the birthplace of padel. And all just a short stroll from the superyacht-filled Port Hercules.

The Casino de Monte-Carlo is a bastion of the Monaco nightlife. One of the most exclusive gambling houses in the world, only visitors can wager under its roof after a 1987 law prohibited any Monégasque citizens from entering or playing. Even the Sovereign Prince of Monaco is turned away. Dripping in gilding and bas-reliefs, its majestic proportions are filled with live music, the patter of chips on felt and the distinct aroma of a dry vodka martini, shaken not stirred.

Attend the Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival

The prestigious Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival delivers funky beats, good rhythm and exceptional music to the French Riviera. Leveraging the Opera House’s astounding acoustics, it is a highlight on the winter calendar. Featuring some of the world's greatest jazz artists and musicians, previous line-ups have included Thomas Dutronc, Hugh Coltman and Kyle Eastwood.

Monaco

Offering sun-kissed elegance, designer boutiques and the world’s most concentrated cluster of Michelin-starred restaurants, Monaco is like nowhere else on Earth. Dock your yacht in fashionable Port Hercules and step straight into the centre of all the action. A sovereign city-state and microstate on the French Riviera, Monaco has the highest per capita GDP in the world.

Celebrate Monaco National Day

The National Day of Monaco, also known as The Sovereign Prince's Day, is celebrated each year on 19 November. It marks the Principality’s independence and statehood, and since 2005 has also acknowledged Prince Albert’s accession to the throne. Join the Royal family and Ambassadors who gather in uniformed attire on the streets with their medals on full display to catch sight of the hundreds of Monegasque flags, sporting the red and white colours of the Grimaldi Family. By evening, the sky lights up with dazzling fireworks for a spectacular finish.

Watch the No Finish Line race

As the name suggests, the No Finish Line race is a never-ending event in which participants attempt to run as many laps as they can of a 1.4km circuit around the streets of Monaco over the course of eight days. Each kilometre covered raises money for charity projects for disadvantaged or sick children. The race is open to all ages, but if participation doesn’t appeal, instead relax in Parc Fontvieille with a glass in hand to cheer from the side-lines.

Nice

Located towards the Italian border and close to Monaco, Nice is the capital of the French Riviera. Aside from its 7km seaside promenade and legendary golden sandy beaches, the area is a cultural hot spot overflowing with must-see exhibitions and museums filled with the world’s greatest art collections. The Old Town offers historic tenement houses and narrow streets, while the Old Port is where the superyachts dock, surrounded by lush greenery and colourful residences.

Explore the Matisse Museum

To witness one of the largest collections of Henri Matisse paintings, head to the Musée Matisse. Spanning his life’s work, the municipal museum celebrates the much-loved French painter, who spent several years in Nice from 1916 onwards. He was known for his use of colour, but among the 600 famed artworks on display are artefacts from the artist’s personal life providing a rare glimpse into his world in an intimate setting.

Enjoy Le Beaujolais Nouveau

On the third Thursday in November in France, the Beaujolais Nouveau is released. This fruity Gamay wine is meant to be drunk young, and typically in large quantities. Though not renowned for its full body or delicacy, it marks the end of the grape harvest and is accompanied by fireworks, music and festivals. Head to family-owned Cave Caprioglio in Nice’s Old Town to sample a full-bodied selection from the region’s best vineyards.

Learn more about November charters to the French Rivera for our charter experts

If you’re thinking about chartering a yacht to the French Riviera in November, our team of Burgess yacht brokers are well positioned to support and advise on the most suitable boat on which to experience the glamorous Côte d'Azur.

To find out more about Burgess’ yachts for sale and yachts for charter, please contact a Burgess broker. Alternatively, get in touch with one of our offices directly: London, Monaco, New York, Miami, Singapore or all other locations.