The name French Riviera refers to a region in southern France.The moniker ‘French Riviera’ was coined in 1887. For obvious reasons, it was given the name Cote d’Azur, which translates to azure (blue) coast.The definition of a Riviera is ‘a coastal region with a subtropical climate and vegetation’, which is exactly what the south of France is. Stéphen Liégeard, a writer, coined the term ‘Côte d’Azur’ in his book, La Côte d’Azur, which was released the same year. Cannes, located near the center of the French Riviera, is a fashionable resort famed for its film festival as well as its beaches and yachts. It has a hot and temperate climate, with many sunny, bright days and summer temperatures.After reading the facts about the French Riviera, also check French cheese facts and facts about the French horn.History Of French RivieraThe English aristocracy developed a penchant for travel in the 18th century, particularly spending the winter on the eastern coast of Provence. The South of France, viewed as a Garden of Eden, was also the natural ‘gateway’ to Italy and its culture, a hallmark of the elites.This periodic movement of the English upper classes was quickly imitated by other European elites, who were also looking for a pleasant winter. The health argument originated at the beginning of the 19th century when people would go to these winter resorts for medical treatment. The winter resort was founded in the 18th century, and it was sealed in the 19th.Today, the limits of the French Riviera, particularly on its western side, remain hazy. The boundary for die-hard ‘Azuréens’ is along the Monaco-Nice-Cannes line, where Saint Tropez is tolerated.Tourism In French RivieraThe Lemon Festival takes place in the French Riviera seaside resort of Menton. Menton is located on the Mediterranean coast but is bordered by the Alpes Maritimes mountains.Menton is located on the French Riviera, halfway between Monaco and the Italian Riviera. Every year, nearly 300,000 people attend this celebration, which celebrates the end of winter and the arrival of spring. The Lemon Festival is a one-of-a-kind and colorful celebration of life that honors citrus fruits!The Lemon Festival is celebrated in the same manner as a carnival, with parades and floats; yet, because it originated as a carnival celebration, it is simply referred to as a festival by name. After the Nice Carnival, it is the second-largest event on the French Riviera. The Tourist Office organizes the Lemon Festival, which has been going on since 1928.Traveling by boat is the greatest way to experience France’s southern beaches. You can rent a car and travel along the coast between Marseille and Nice. Joining a small group sailing cruise is the greatest way to save money.Look for street carts and open-air food markets selling regional specialties such as fougasse (salty herb bread), socca (chickpea pancakes), niçoise salad, and barbagiuan (fried Swiss-cheese fritters). Cannes’ Marché Forville market is open every day (except Mondays), and Nice’s Old Town flower and vegetable market in the Cours Saleya is always bustling.The majority of hotels in the port towns will charge peak prices, and they are still fully booked months in advance. One option is to remain in Nice and enjoy day trips along the Riviera.Climate Of French RivieraSummer temperatures rarely reach 86 F (30 C), while winter temperatures remain between 50-59 F (10-15 C).The rainy season lasts from October to April, with October and November being the wettest months. The average annual rainfall in Nice is 28.7 in (72.89 cm) per year, with just 61 rainy days. Summer is typically hot and dry, but temperatures are normally pleasant due to the effect of the sea. Away from the ocean, the weather is a little cooler, but still sunny. Snow is uncommon along the shore, although it is common in the Alps from November to May.From June through October, the temperature of the waters in the Côte d’Azur exceeds 66.2 F (19 C). In August, the seawater temperature reaches 75.2 F (24 C). The French Riviera, often known as the Côte d’Azur, is beautiful at any time of year. The greatest time to visit is between April and September when the climate is defined by long sunny days and pleasant temperatures.Famous Coasts In French RivieraNice, located on the western side of the Ligurian Sea—a portion of the Mediterranean that includes part of the Italian coast—is sought after for its mild air and sea conditions, particularly from late spring to early fall.The pleasant Riviera city is also wetter than many others on the south coast, with high precipitation levels in particular throughout the autumn.Monaco may not be the largest city, but this city has many attractions like the Monte Carlo casino in the south of France, Monaco Grand Prix, Villa Leopolda, and the Jade coast. Many happening events in this city may include the famous French artists and their French Riviera covers, the oldest jazz festival convention site, the shooting of famous movies, and many more.The historic town of Antibes (and the adjacent resort area known as Juan-les-Pins) is regarded for its warm sea and air temperatures, which are mitigated by an abundance of trees and greenery. The temperate Mediterranean climate has hot, dry summers with highs in August around 80 F (26.6 C) and chilly, rainy falls and winters. Swimming and sunbathing are best from late May to early September.Monaco may be the smallest country, but it has many amenities for its foreign tourists. There is an expensive winter health resort at the Alabaster Coast along with a health spa and many such amenities to be rented.Another reason why this country is famous is due to the man in the iron mask who was held as a prisoner but was famous all around the world. The easiest way to reach here is via the Paris Orly airport which is the busiest airport.Monaco citizens love to explore the seaside coasts where they can see this island located. Precious stones along the pearl coast, warm breezes, bustling nightlife, wealthy Americans like to spend their dollars in this world’s perfume capital having a rich history of housing a thriving perfume industry.Here at Kidadl, we have carefully created lots of interesting family-friendly facts for everyone to enjoy! If you liked our suggestions for French Riviera facts then why not take a look at French quarter facts, or French resistance facts.
The name French Riviera refers to a region in southern France.