Celebrate Christmas in the sunshine: 5 reasons to choose the Côte d’Azur

So you want to celebrate Christmas in the sunshine this year? You would gladly go to Guadeloupe and even Thailand, but between the many hours of flying and the difficulty of brining the entire family together at the other end of the world, things could be complicated…

Happily, the south of France benefits from sunny weather all year round. Yes, you’ve got it, the Côte d’Azur is the perfect destination for celebrating Christmas in the sunshine! And trust us, the sunshine is not its only asset! Discover our 5 reasons for choosing the Côte d’Azur for the end of year festivities.

1. Enjoy the pleasures of the beach, even in winter

In Cannes, Antibes, Nice, Menton, and Saint-Tropez, the beaches keep their summer atmosphere all year round.

Even in winter, residents make the most of the good weather to gather beside the Mediterranean.

Children explore while searching for shells and shellfish while the adults take the time to bask in the sun.

The opportunity to take in some fresh sea air and get a little colour in your cheeks!

The more daring amongst you may be tempted to try an invigorating swim, a good way of recharging your batteries before the end of year festivities.

2. Discover the warm atmosphere of the Côte d’Azur Christmas markets

The region has a very good reputation in terms of gastronomy! Add to this the friendly and warm spirit of the residents of the southeast and you have the perfect recipe for a successful Christmas market!

Between traditional and modern, the Côte d’Azur Christmas markets offer you a true immersion in Provencal culture. Follow the sound of the tambourins: they lead you to the heart of the towns and villages, where dances, stage performances and traditional processions are in full swing.

On the stalls, the sun-drenched fruit and vegetables have given way to nativities and their figures. Celebrate Christmas in the sunshine on the Côte d’Azur and share unique moments with the locals, where generosity is blended with a joy for life and ancestral traditions.

Where will your next destination be to celebrate Christmas in the sunshine on the Côte d’Azur?

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A concentrate of pure air in the Côte d’Azur Alps

An hour away from the big cities on the Côte d’Azur lies a paradise of unspoiled wholesome nature. Magnificent landscapes, authentic villages and mountain resorts await....

3. Taste the flavours of a Provencal Christmas

Christmas is above all a good excuse to enjoy food and, as luck would have it, on the Côte d’Azur there is no lack of sweet treats… or quantity!

Generous by nature, at this time of year the Côte d’Azur residents will be pleased to share with you the recipes and great spots to try local specialties.

On the menu for your stay on the Côte d’Azur: cod with raïto, Provencal-style snails, soup au pistou, rouille, fougasse, panade, oreillettes, biscuits with pine nuts…

Head for the restaurants of the Côte d’Azur to tickle the entire family’s tastebuds!

4. Celebrate Christmas in the sunshine on an island

Do you dream of celebrating Christmas in the sunshine on an island?

No need to head for the Caribbean or the Indies to top up on vitamin D on an idyllic beach, discover the islands of the Côte d’Azur!

Sainte-Marguerite Island, Saint-Honorat Island, Port Cros Island, Porquerolles Island, Levant Island… Set off by boat to discover these jewels of the Mediterranean.

On the agenda for your getaway: fine sandy beaches, turquoise waters, wild nature and historic heritage.

Everything you need to enjoy a trip with a far-off feel during a sunny day on the Côte d’Azur!

5. Explore the destination in complete tranquillity

Much less frequented than in the summer holidays, take pleasure in (re)discovering the Côte d’Azur in a more intimate way at the end of the year.

While the Christmas festivities take place in the town centres, by distancing yourself a little in the Côte d’Azur hinterland you can observe the local flora and fauna up close.

A season conducive to hiking and bike rides, winter brings with it its little white blanket and the desire for comforting dishes.

Enjoy the calm in the Côte d’Azur villages, visit the museums and the large firms that make the destinations know-how shine out!

Our accommodation ideas for celebrating Christmas in the sunshine on the Côte d’Azur

During the winter holidays, accommodation is much more affordable than in the summer season!

The opportunity for you to treat yourself by booking the perfect accommodation for your family holiday.

Whether in a hotel beside the Mediterranean or in a holiday let under the summits of the Alpine foothills, book your accommodation on the Côte d’Azur now!

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Accommodation

On the Côte d’Azur, there is a place to stay and an experience to fulfil your every desire. From a luxury hotel with a sea view to a charming bed and breakfast in the heart of...

Our ideas for activities during the Christmas holidays

There are a thousand and one things to do on the Côte d’Azur in winter! Take the time to discover the destination in a different way, wilder and more intimate. Make the most of the joys of being outdoors beside the sea, and the festive atmospheres of the Côte d’Azur Christmas markets. Here are our activity ideas for your trip to the Côte d’Azur:

●     Set off on a hike in the valley
●     Enjoy a day skiing in the Alpine resorts
●     Discover the hilltop villages of the Côte d’Azur hinterland
●     Spend the afternoon on an island
●     Make a marathon of the Côte d’Azur museums
●     Discover the local arts and crafts

Our ideas for Christmas gifts made in Côte d’Azur

To put a little sunshine under the tree and please your loved ones, there’s nothing better than giving gifts made in Côte d’Azur! Between arts & crafts and tradition, make your purchases in the Côte d’Azur Christmas markets or directly on site in the nearby production workshops and factories.

Perfect for uncovering beautiful original gifts while helping the local economy! Here are a few ideas:

●     Blown glass sculpture
●     Set of ceramic pottery items
●     Perfume by Galimard, Fragonardor Molinard
●     A pair of tropezienne sandals
●     Wines from Provence
●     Cosmetics made with lavender
●     Handmade soaps

Continue to top-up on inspiration for your holidays on the Côte d’Azur:

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