Luxurious Summer Journey through Europe: A Grand Road Expedition from Rome to Saint-Tropez, Italy and France
Exploring the Riviera and Beyond: A Journey through France and Italy
The French Riviera, stretching from Antibes to Monaco, offers a captivating blend of elegance and relaxation. This stunning coastline, often referred to as the Riviera circuit, is home to some unforgettable destinations.
In Saint-Tropez, we found charm in the quiet alleys, bougainvillaea-spilled terraces, and secret courtyards. The town was as extravagant and beautiful as its reputation suggests, with Pampelonne Beach dotted with beach clubs and laughter carried on the breeze.
A short drive away, we visited the town of Eze, known for its charming hilltop neighborhood and Jardin Exotique with incredible cactus gardens. Here, we had a memorable perfume-making workshop at Fragonard.
Monaco, too, was a highlight of our trip. We strolled through the Casino de Monte-Carlo and relaxed at the Jacquemus Monte Carlo Beach Club. Nearby, we enjoyed a wonderful experience at a Mediterranean restaurant.
Our journey took us beyond the Riviera, to Rome, Italy. The city was a spectacle that reminded us of what human vision and faith can build. Rome offered hidden corners, including narrow alleyways, hidden piazzas, and cool churches. Some standout hidden and less touristy spots include the Aventine Hill’s Buco della Serratura, where through a keyhole you get a framed view of St. Peter’s Basilica; the Jasmine Promenade, an elevated walkway near Vatican stations filled with blooming jasmine in spring and offering a quiet view of the city; and the San Lorenzo and Pigneto neighborhoods, known for their local vibe away from tourist crowds.
The Capuchin Crypt, a macabre yet spiritual site decorated with monks' bones under Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini, offers a unique cultural experience rarely crowded. The Trastevere neighborhood, especially Villa Farnesina with its Renaissance art and tranquil gardens, remains a charming off-the-beaten-path area to enjoy calm in Rome. Private local tours can help explore lesser-known alleys, local eateries, and secret spots like Ponte Sisto Bridge and neighborhood breweries, enriching a uniquely local experience.
In Nice, France, while our query was about both cities, we found no direct search results on hidden corners or off-the-beaten-path destinations in Nice in this dataset. However, by common travel knowledge, neighborhoods like Le Port and Cimiez tend to be less tourist-heavy, with local markets, peaceful parks, and authentic bistros. You might explore quiet beaches away from the Promenade des Anglais or hike into the hills around Nice for scenic views less frequented by tourists.
Our trip was special due to the unconventional way of experiencing destinations, such as driving through winding roads and stopping wherever caught the eye. Having a car provided freedom in both Italy and France, allowing us to avoid tourist hordes, stop spontaneously, and take long, scenic routes. Lake Como in Italy offered a softer pace, with serpentine roads, lush hills, and cinematic charm.
In Milan, Italy, we fell in love with the neighborhood of Brera, with its cobblestone streets, galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. It felt like a dream of old Europe.
This journey through the Riviera and beyond was a testament to the allure and charm of these extraordinary destinations. Whether you're seeking elegance, relaxation, or adventure, the Riviera and Italy offer an unforgettable experience.
[1] Buco della Serratura, Jasmine Promenade, San Lorenzo and Pigneto neighborhoods, Capuchin Crypt, Villa Farnesina [2] Capuchin Crypt [3] Trastevere neighborhood [4] Private local tours in Rome [5] Le Port and Cimiez
Traveling through the hidden corners of the Trastevere neighborhood and exploring the Capuchin Crypt in Rome complemented our luxury lifestyle in the French Riviera, where we visited sites like Pampelonne Beach and perfume-making workshops at Fragonard.
Our journey beyond the Riviera included secret spots like the Aventine Hill’s Buco della Serratura and less touristy neighborhoods such as San Lorenzo and Pigneto in Italy, as well as undiscovered gems like Le Port and Cimiez in Nice, France.
