A Guide to Museums on the Côte d’Azur

The Côte d’Azur is a treasure trove of art, history and culture. Scattered across this beautiful corner of France are museums that celebrate everything from modern masterpieces to ancient civilizations. Whether you’re an art enthusiast eager to explore the works of Picasso and Matisse, or a history buff drawn to archaeological wonders, the region’s museums offer a fascinating journey through time and creativity. Read on for my guide to some of the most captivating museums on the Côte d’Azur that you won’t want to miss.

General Tips for Visiting Museums on the Côte d’Azur

Visiting museums on the Côte d’Azur should always be a pleasure, especially if you bear in mind these general tips. One thing to know is that none of the museums listed below are big. They are all easily manageable in an hour or two and some are quite tiny. Many are rarely busy but for the bigger names, my advice is to go as soon as the museum opens. The later it is, the busier they are.

ALWAYS CHECK THE MUSEUM’S WEBSITE for up-to-date information.

• Almost all museums are free on the first Sunday of the month (which can of course increase visitor numbers. Always try to go early).
• Almost all museums stop selling tickets half an hour before closing time.
• Take photo ID and student cards for concession prices.
• Some museums close for a few days (even up to a couple of weeks) between exhibitions, while they prepare the next one. Check the website to avoid disappointment.
• 9 of Nice’s municipal museums participate in a 4 day pass, allowing access to these museums for the bargain price of 15€. Available to buy online or at any of the participating museums. More info on the city’s official website.
• Some other museums have combined ticket offers such as Renoir and Château-Musée Grimaldi, and MIP and Bonnard. It is always worth checking the websites for deals.
• Some museums, for example MIP, offer reduced entry price if you come by train. You have to show your local (TER) train ticket. Check websites to see if the museum you want to visit participates in this scheme.

Art Museums on the Côte d’Azur

The Côte d’Azur is famous for many things, not least its beautiful light, 300 days of sunshine a year and lovely climate.  This has played a big part in attracting scores of artists to live or at least spend time here over the last century. Picasso, Matisse, Chagall, Renoir, Bonnard and Léger all had strong ties to the French Riviera and nowadays have museums dedicated to their work across the region. Art continues to play an important part in the local cultural heritage and this is reflected in the many diverse and interesting art museums on the Côte d’Azur.

FAMM

The Female Artists of the Mougins Museum (FAMM), located in the picturesque village of Mougins, is Europe’s first major museum dedicated entirely to female artists. Opened in June 2024, FAMM showcases over 100 works by more than 80 women artists from around the world, spanning from the 19th century to contemporary times, including iconic names such as Frida Kahlo, Tracey Emin, Louise Bourgeois and Barbara Hepworth. It is a wonderful new addition to the museums on the Côte d’Azur.

Practical information

• Open all year
• Closed 25 Dec
• Opening hours: 10h – 18h Oct-20 June, 10h – 20h 21 June-Sept
• Adults 16€, senior (64+) 9€, students 7€, 10-17 5€, under 10 free
• FAMM website
• Address: 32 Rue du Commandeur, 06250 Mougins

Fondation Maeght

The Fondation Maeght in Saint Paul de Vence is one of the biggest private collections of modern and contemporary art in the world, set in a beautiful natural hillside location surrounded by forest. Founded in 1964 by Aimé and Marguerite Maeght, its permanent collection includes works by artists such as Miró, Braque, Calder, Chagall and Giacometti. It hosts excellent temporary exhibitions too. The museum blends art and nature, with sculptures, mosaics, and installations integrated into its tranquil gardens, water features and architectural spaces.

There is a lovely gift shop and café on site.

Practical information

• Open all year
• Opening hours: 10h – 18h Sept-June, 10h – 19h July-Aug
• Adults 18€, 16-18 and students 14€, under 16 free
• Fondation Maeght website
• Address: 623 Chem. des Gardettes, 06570 Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Musée National Fernand Léger

The National Fernand Léger Museum in Biot is a vibrant tribute to the pioneering French artist Fernand Léger, known for his bold use of color and dynamic compositions. Set in a striking modernist building surrounded by lovely gardens, the museum houses an extensive collection of his paintings, sculptures, mosaics, stained glass and drawings, tracing his evolution from Cubism to more abstract and monumental works.

Read my full review here.

Practical information

• Open all year except Tuesdays
• Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec
• Opening hours: 10h – 17h Nov-April, 10h – 18h May-Oct
• Adults 5.50€ – 7.50€ (depending on exhibition), under 26 free
• Fernand Léger Museum website
• Address: 255 Chem. du Val de Pôme, 06410 Biot

Musée Bonnard

The Bonnard Museum in Le Cannet is the only museum in the world dedicated to Pierre Bonnard, a master of color and light. Located in a charming Belle Époque villa with a dramatic modern extension, it showcases a small but interesting collection of his paintings, drawings, and photographs, highlighting his deep connection to the landscapes and Mediterranean light of the French Riviera. Bonnard spent the last years of his life in Le Cannet, capturing its beauty in vibrant, intimate works.

Practical information

• Open all year except Mondays
• Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 1 Nov, 25 Dec.
• Opening hours: 10h – 18h Sept-June, 10h – 20h July-Aug
• Adults 7€, 12-18 and 65+ 5€, under 12 and students free
• Bonnard Museum website
• Address: 16 Bd Sadi Carnot, 06110 Le Cannet

La Malmaison

La Malmaison Art Center in Cannes is a recently renovated prestigious gallery showcasing modern and contemporary art in an elegant 19th-century mansion on the famous Croisette boulevard. This intimate space hosts rotating exhibitions featuring renowned artists such as Picasso, Matisse, Miró, and César. Fabulous views from the roof-top terrace.

Practical information

• Open all year except Mondays (Sept-June)
• Opening hours: 10h – 13h, 14h – 18h Sept-June, 10h – 19h July-Aug (incl Mondays)
• Adults 6.50€, 18-25 3.50€, under 18 free
• La Malmaison website
• Address: 47 Bd de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes

Musée Picasso Antibes

The Picasso Museum in Antibes is housed in the historic Château Grimaldi, perched on the ramparts in the old town of Antibes. In 1946, Pablo Picasso used the castle as a temporary studio, creating numerous paintings and drawings that now form the core of the museum’s collection. The museum showcases a small but interesting selection of Picasso’s works, including La Joie de Vivre and ceramics, alongside pieces by other modern artists like Nicolas de Staël. The sculptures on, and views from, the terrace are possibly the best reason to visit.

Read my full review here.

Practical information

• Open all year except Mondays
• Closed 1 Jan, Easter Sunday, 1 May, 25 Dec
• Opening hours: mid Sept-mid June 10h – 13h, 14h – 18h, mid June-mid Sept 10h – 18h
• Adults 12€, students 8€, under 18 free
• Picasso Museum website
• Address: Place Mariejol, 06600 Antibes

Musée National Pablo Picasso (Musée de la Céramique, Musée Magnelli)  

The National Pablo Picasso Museum in Vallauris showcases a selection of Picasso’s pottery, sculptures, ceramics and paintings. Housed in the historic Château de Vallauris, the museum features Picasso’s famous mural La Guerre et la Paix (War and Peace), a powerful anti-war masterpiece painted directly onto the chapel walls. Picasso lived and worked in Vallauris from 1947 to 195. He was very attached to the town, which he demonstrated by offering it L’Homme au Mouton statue. This was the first Picasso sculpture to be exhibited in a public place and it can be seen in the square just outside the chateau.

The museum also houses the Magnelli Museum of Ceramics.

Practical information

• Open all year except Tuesdays
• Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 1 & 11 Nov, 25 Dec
• Opening hours: mid Sept-June 10h – 12.15h, 14h – 17h, July-mid Sept 10h – 12.30h, 14h – 18h
• Adults 6€, students 3€, under 18 free
• National Pablo Picasso Museum website
• Address: Place de la Libération, 06220 Vallauris

Musée Renoir

The Renoir Museum in Cagnes-sur-Mer is a beautifully preserved estate that was once the home of the renowned Impressionist painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir. Nestled in a peaceful olive grove with hundreds of ancient trees, the museum showcases Renoir’s personal belongings, original paintings, sculptures, and his fully preserved studio.

Practical information

• Open all year except Tuesdays
• Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec.
• Opening hours: Oct-March 10h – 12h, 14h – 17h, April-May 10h- 12h, 14h – 18h, June-Sept 10h – 13h, 14h-18h (gardens open non-stop)
• Adults 6€, under 26 free
• Renoir Museum website
• Address: 19 Chem. des Collettes, 06800 Cagnes-sur-Mer

Musée Jean Cocteau – le Bastion

The Cocteau Bastion Museum in Menton is a unique space dedicated to the multifaceted genius of Jean Cocteau, the celebrated poet, filmmaker, and artist. Housed in a 17th-century fortress, the tiny museum showcases Cocteau’s drawings, paintings, and ceramics. Cocteau himself designed the museum, carefully curating its layout and decoration. Not to be confused with the large imposing modern building on the seafront which was a museum of Cocteau’s work but is now sadly permanently closed (but still comes up in searches for Cocteau museums in Menton).

Practical information

• Open all year except Tuesdays
• Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 1 Nov, 25 Dec.
• Opening hours: 10h – 12.30h, 14h – 18h
• Adults 5€, students & 65+ 3.75€, under 18 free
• Cocteau Bastion Museum website
• Address Quai Napoléon III, 06500 Menton

Art Museums in Nice

Nice punches above its weight in terms of museums, it is home to more than a dozen important institutions. I’ve grouped together its art museums for convenience but there are also historical museums listed further in this blog. There’s something for everyone in this dynamic UNESCO World Heritage city.

Musée Matisse

The Matisse Museum in Nice celebrates the life and work of Henri Matisse, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, who spent many years living in the area. Housed in a beautiful 17th-century Genoese villa next to the Roman remains of ancient Nice, the museum holds an important collection of Matisse’s paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, stained glass windows and cut-outs. It also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions.

There is a great gift shop on site and a café nearby in the Cimiez gardens.

Practical information

• Open all year except Tuesdays
• Closed 1 Jan, Easter Sunday, 1 May, 25 Dec.
• Opening hours: 10h – 17h Nov-March, 10h – 18h April-Oct
• Adults 10€, under 18 and students free
• Included in the 4 day Museum Pass
• Matisse Museum website
• Address 164 Av. des Arènes de Cimiez, 06000 Nice

Musée National Marc Chagall

The National Chagall Museum in the Cimiez district of Nice is dedicated to the works of Marc Chagall, one of the 20th century’s most visionary artists. The museum houses the largest public collection of his works, with a focus on his impressive Biblical Message series—17 vibrant, dreamlike paintings inspired by religious themes. Designed with Chagall’s input, the museum highlights the diversity and richness of his work, exposing paintings, drawings, mosaics, sculptures, stained glass, and tapestries.

Practical information

• Open all year except Tuesdays
• Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec.
• Opening hours: 10h – 13h, 14.30h – 17h Nov-April, 10h – 13h, 14h – 18h May-Oct
• Adults 8-10€ (depending on exhibition), under 26 (EU) free
• Chagall Museum website
• Address Av. Dr Ménard, 06000 Nice

Musée des Arts Asiatiques

The Museum of Asian Arts in Nice is a little-known gem that offers an interesting journey through the artistic and cultural traditions of Asia. Located next to Parc Phoenix (worth a visit especially for the tropical glass houses) on a lake stocked with Koi carp, the museum’s striking modern architecture by Kenzo Tange houses a small collection of artworks from China, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia. On display are ancient artefacts, decorative arts, folk art, funerary art and textiles.  The top floor is dedicated to Buddhism. The museum hosts regular exhibitions, tea ceremonies, workshops and cultural events. And the most unusual feature of this museum is that it is free!

Read my in-depth review here.

Practical information

• Open all year except Tuesdays
• Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec.
• Opening hours: 10h – 17h Sept-June, 10h – 18h July-Aug
• Free entrance
• Museum of Asian Arts website
• Address 405 Prom. des Anglais, 06200 Nice

Musée International d’Art Naïf Anatole Jakovsky

The International Museum of Naïve Art Anatole Jakovsky in Nice is a unique museum dedicated to colourful, free-spirited and spontaneous Naïve art. Housed in the elegant Château Sainte-Hélène, once owned by perfume magnate François Coty, the museum features works from the 18th century to contemporary times. The collection, donated by art critic Anatole Jakovsky, includes pieces by Henri Rousseau, Séraphine de Senlis and local artist Ben, showcasing colorful, fun and unconventional artistic styles from around the world. The museum is set in beautiful grounds dotted with sculptures and other works of art.

Practical information

• Open all year except Tuesdays
• Closed 1 Jan, Easter, 1 May, 25 Dec
• Opening hours: 10h – 12.30h, 13.30 – 18h
• Adults 5€, under 18 and students free
• Included in the 4 day Museum Pass
• Museum of Naïve Art website
• Address 23 Av. de Fabron, 06200 Nice

Musée des Beaux Arts Jules Chéret

The Musée des Beaux Arts in Nice is a lesser-visited but surprisingly worthwhile museum housed in the elegant Villa Kotchoubey, a 19th-century mansion. The museum’s collection spans from the Renaissance to the 20th century, featuring works by the likes of Fragonard, Degas, Renoir, and an interesting section dedicated to female artists on the Fench Riviera in the Belle Epoque.

Currently (March 2025) there’s a lovely exhibition on Raoul Dufy until September.

Practical information

• Open all year except Mondays
• Closed 1 Jan, Easter Sunday, 1 May, 25 Dec
• Opening hours: Nov-April 11h – 18h, May-Oct 10h – 18h
• Adults 10€, under 18 and students free
• Included in the 4 day Museum Pass
• Museum of Fine Arts website
• Address 33 Av. des Baumettes, 06000 Nice

MAMAC

The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is currently closed for major renovations until 2028 but some of its collection can be seen in temporary exhibitions around Nice and further afield. Check its website for information.

MAMAC website

Archaeology & History Museums on the Côte d’Azur

The Côte d’Azur boasts a rich history and archaeological heritage dating back thousands of years. The region was first inhabited during the prehistoric era, and over time it became a vital crossroads for Greek and Roman civilizations, leaving behind some impressive ruins. Medieval hilltop villages, ancient trade routes, and archaeological sites reveal the area’s diverse past, blending Ligurian, Roman, and Provençal influences. Today, the Côte d’Azur’s history is preserved through its multitude of museums, historic towns, and ancient monuments.

Musée d’Archéologie de Nice, Cimiez

The Archeology Museum of Nice in Cimiez offers a fascinating journey through the ancient history of Nice and the surrounding area. Located on the site of the Roman city of Cemenelum, the museum showcases artifacts from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages, including pottery, mosaics, and everyday objects from Roman life. Visitors can also explore the well-preserved ruins of Roman baths, an amphitheater, and paved streets in the outdoor part of the museum.

Practical information

• Open all year except Tuesdays
• Closed 1 Jan, Easter Sunday, 1 May, 25 Dec
• Opening hours: Nov-April 10h – 17h, May-Oct 10h – 18h
• Adults 5€, under 18 and students free
• Included in the 4 day Museum Pass
• Archeology Museum website
• Address: 160 Av. des Arènes de Cimiez, 06000 Nice

Musée Massena

The Masséna Museum in Nice is a fascinating museum housed in a grand Belle Époque villa on the Promenade des Anglais (ticket office is at the back entrance on rue de France). Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the museum showcases the rich history of Nice and the French Riviera, from the Napoleonic era to the Roaring Twenties. Its collection includes paintings, sculptures, historic photographs, and memorabilia, such as Napoleon’s death mask. It is the place to go to see the famous pier modeled on Brighton Pier that used to be located on the Promenade des Anglais but was destroyed during WWII. There are photos, paintings, a model and a rather wonderful model made of Lego!

Practical information

• Open all year except Tuesdays
• Closed 1 Jan, Easter Sunday, 1 May, 25 Dec
• Opening hours: Nov-April 11h – 18h, May-Oct 10h – 18h
• Adults 10€, under 18 and students free
• Included in the 4 day Museum Pass
• Massena Museum website
• Address: 65 Rue de France, 06000 Nice

Palais Lascaris

The Palais Lascaris in Nice is a beautifully preserved Baroque palace in the heart of the Old Town, recognised as a Historic Monument. Built in the 17th century for the aristocratic Lascaris-Vintimille family, it features lavish frescoes, a monumental grand staircase, gorgeous period furniture and intricate tapestries. Today, it is home to an impressive collection of historical musical instruments, one of the largest in France. Palais Lascaris is well worth visiting for the building alone, it is a true hidden gem tucked away in an unassuming narrow alley.

Practical information

• Open all year except Tuesdays
• Closed 1 Jan, Easter Sunday, 1 May, 25 Dec
• Opening hours: Nov-April 11h – 18h, May-Oct 10h – 18h
• Adults 5€, under 18 and students free
• Included in the 4 day Museum Pass
• Palais Lascaris website
• Address: 15 Rue Droite, 06300 Nice

Musée du Masque de Fer et du Fort Royal

The Museum of the Iron Mask and Royal Fort (formerly known as the Museum of the Sea) on Sainte-Marguerite island, just off the coast of Cannes, is a historic site shrouded in mystery. Housed within the Fort Royal, the museum is best known for the legend of the Man in the Iron Mask, the infamous prisoner who was held there in the 17th century. Visitors can explore his cell, along with exhibits on the island’s history, archaeology, and maritime heritage. To access the museum you must take a ferry from Cannes, which is all part of the fun. The stunning sea views and breathtaking scenery from the various lookouts in the fort make this a museum worthy of a visit whether you’re interested in the history or not.

Practical information

• Open all year except Mondays (open every day July-Sept)
• Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 1 & 11 Nov, 25 Dec
• Opening hours: Oct-March 10.30h – 13.15h, 14.15h – 16.45h, April-May 10.30h – 13.15h, 14.15h – 17.45h, June-Sept 10h – 17.45h
• Adults 6.50€, 18-25 3.50€, under 18 and students free
• Museum website
• Address: Ile Sainte Marguerite, 1 Place Bernard Cornut-Gentille, 06400 Cannes

Miscellaneous Museums on the Côte d’Azur

As if art and history weren’t enough (or aren’t your thing), the museums on the Côte d’Azur also include a variety of unusual themes including sport, oceans, gastronomy, perfume and more. Read on to discover these delights.

Musée International de la Parfumerie

The International Perfume Museum in Grasse is a must-visit for fragrance lovers, celebrating the rich history and artistry of perfumery. Located in the world’s perfume capital, the museum showcases an extensive collection of bottles, raw materials, machinery, and historical artefacts that trace the evolution of scent-making from ancient times to today. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to explore the science and craftsmanship behind perfume creation.

Practical information

• Open all year
• Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec, 1^st Monday of the month Jan-March & Oct-Dec
• Opening hours: Sept-June 10h – 18h, July-Aug 10h – 19h
• Adults 6€, students 3€, under 18 free
• MIP website
• Address: 2 Bd du Jeu de Ballon, 06130 Grasse

Musée Océanographique

The Oceanographic Museum in Monaco is a world-renowned institution dedicated to marine science and conservation. Founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I, a pioneer of oceanography, the museum is perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the Mediterranean.  Home to over 6,000 marine species, marine world curiosities and historical artifacts from early ocean exploration such as 200 year old diving gear. Plenty of pickled sea monsters and oddities to capture your imagination. There is also an excellent aquarium in the basement.

The museum has a rooftop with café with magnificent views.

Practical information

• Open all year
• Closed weekend of the F1 Grand Prix in late May, 25 Dec
• Opening hours: Oct-March 10h – 18h, April-June & Sept 10h – 19h, July-Aug 9.30h – 20h
• Adults 22.50€, 4-17 and students 14€, under 4 free
• Oceanographic Museum website
• Address: Av. Saint-Martin, 98000 Monaco

Musée National du Sport

The National Sports Museum in Nice is an excellent museum dedicated to sporting history, fascinating whether you’re “sporty” or not. Located within the Allianz Riviera Stadium, it showcases an extensive collection of memorabilia, including Olympic torches, medals, jerseys, historic bicycles and trophies from various disciplines. Interactive exhibits and multimedia displays bring the stories of legendary athletes and historic sporting moments to life.

Read my full review here.

Practical information

• Open all year closed on Mondays except June – Aug
• Closed 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec
• Opening hours: Sep-May 10h – 17h, June-Aug 10h – 18h
• Adults 8-10€, 18-25 and students 4€, under 18 free (combined ticket with stadium tour 16€)
• National Sports Museum website
• Address: Stade Allianz Riviera, 6 allée Camille Muffat, 06200 Nice

Musée Escoffier de l’Art Culinaire

The Musée Escoffier de l’Art Culinaire in Villeneuve-Loubet is a charming museum dedicated to the legendary chef Auguste Escoffier, the father of modern French cuisine. Housed in his birthplace, a charming 18th-century Provençal home, the museum showcases culinary artifacts, historical menus, elegant tableware, and Escoffier’s famous recipes. Don’t miss out on the exquisite display of sugar and chocolate sculptures, the smell of which is mouth-watering!

Read my full review here.

Practical information

• Open all year except December
• Closed 1-4 Jan, 1 May, 14 May
• Opening hours: Sept-June 10h – 13h, 14h – 18h, July-Aug 10h – 13h, 14h – 19h
• Adults 7€, students 5€, under 12 free
• Escoffier Museum website
• Address: 3 Rue Auguste Escoffier, 06270 Villeneuve-Loubet

Château-Musée Grimaldi

The Château-Musée Grimaldi in Cagnes sur Mer is a magnificent 14th-century castle that offers a blend of history, art and gorgeous panoramic views from its rooftop lookout. Originally built by the Grimaldi family, the château, in the heart of the medieval old town in Cagnes sur Mer, now serves as a museum featuring an unusual collection of contemporary art – portraits of cabaret singer Suzy Solidor by different artists –  and a section dedicated to olive cultivation. Its grand halls, staircase, internal courtyard and Baroque ceiling frescoes are breathtaking. The château is a classified Historic Monument.

Practical information

• Open all year except Tuesdays
• Closed 1 Jan, 25 Dec
• Opening hours: Oct-March 10h – 12h, 14h – 17h, April-June & Sept 10h – 12h, 14h– 18h, July-Aug 10h – 13h, 14h-18h
• Adults 4€, under 26 free
• Museum website
• Address: Pl. du Château, 06800 Cagnes-sur-Mer

Quirky Museums on the Côte d’Azur

My family has always enjoyed quirky museums with unusual subject matters. Here are a few of our favourites on the Côte d’Azur.

Musée du Carnaval

This little museum is run by an aficionado of carnival particularly that of Nice. The exhibits are his private collection of carnival memorabilia, from a lifetime of involvement with le Carnaval de Nice. A fun outing with kids, wrap up warm in winter as there’s no heating. Can be combined with a ride on the funicular in Contes village.

Practical information

• Open all year closed on Sun & Mon
• Opening hours: Tues-Fri 14.30h – 17.30h, Sat 10h – 12h, 14h – 17h
• Adults (over 16) 6€, 4-15 4€, under 3 free
• Carnival Museum website
• Address: 146 Chem. de las Ayas, 06390 Contes

Musée de l’Ecole

The School Museum in Antibes offers a nostalgic look at primary school in bygone times with displays of old wooden school desks, porcelain ink wells, beautiful cursive handwriting and leather school bags. For French speakers you might even get the chance to do a “dictée”!

Practical information

• Open all year
• Opening hours: Sat & Sun 15h – 18h, (14.30h – 17.30h in winter), Sat only in summer
• Free entrance with a donation box
• School Museum website
• Address: 18 Av. de Verdun, 06600 Antibes

Musée des Coquillages

The Seashell Museum in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a quirky little museum showcasing an impressive collection of over 7,000 shells, including more than 400 world record specimens. Please note that the museum is currently closed for renovations but I’ll update as soon as it’s open again.

See my full review here.

Practical information

• Currently closed for renovations
• Address: 3 Quai Lindbergh, 06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Bonus Places to see World-Class Art

And finally, it would be remiss of me not to include some of the alternative places you can see amazing art not in museums on the Côte d’Azur. From cathedrals to shopping centres via restaurants and a town hall, there’s art in unlikely places when you know where to look.

Chagall mosaic in Vence Cathedral

Inside the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de la Nativité, in Vence (the smallest cathedral in France and a listed Historic Monument) you’ll find the mosaic entitled “Moses Saved from the Waters”, created by Marc Chagall in 1979.

• Open all year
• Opening hours: 9h – 18h
• Free entry
• Address: Pl. Clemenceau, 06140 Vence

Paintings by Rubens in Grasse Cathedral

Inside the Cathedral of Notre-Dame du Puy in Grasse you’ll find 3 paintings “Crowned with Thorns”, “St. Helena”, and “The Crucifixion” attributed to Flemish Baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens.

• Open all year
• Closed on Sunday
• Opening hours: Mon 9h – 12h, 14h – 17h, Tues-Sat 9h – 12h, 13h – 17h
• Free entry
• Address: 6 Pl. du Petit Puy, 06130 Grasse

Chapelle du Rosaire de Vence, known as the Matisse Chapel

Chapel in Vence entirely designed and decorated by Matisse, with stunning stained-glass windows, mosaics, sketches and liturgical vestments.

• Open all year except 21 Nov – 12 Dec
• Closed Sun & Mon & every public holiday
• Opening hours: Nov-Feb 10h – 11.30h, 14h – 16.30h, Mar – Oct 10h – 11.30h, 14h – 17.30h
• Adults 7€, students 6€, 12-18 4€, under 12 free
• Address: 466 Av. Henri Matisse, 06140 Vence

Frescoes by Cocteau in Menton and Villefranche sur Mer

Between 1957 and 1958 Cocteau decorated the Salle des Mariages (wedding hall) in Menton Town Hall with frescoes of mythological figures. While this wonderful room is open to the public, it is also very much a working room in the Town Hall, where marriages take place.

• Open all year
• Closed Sat & Sun & every public holiday
• Opening hours: 8.30 – 12h, 14h – 16.30h
• Adults 2€, students & 65+ 1€, under 18 free
• Address: Hôtel de Ville, 17 rue de la République, 06500 Menton

Cocteau also decorated both the exterior and interior of the Chapelle St Pierre, a fishermen’s chapel, in Villefranche sur Mer at the same time as the wedding hall in Menton.

• Open all year, closed mid Nov – mid Dec
• Closed Mon & Tues & 25 Dec
• Opening hours: 9.30h – 12.30, 14h – 18h
• Adults 4€, under 15 free
• Address: 4 Quai de l’Amiral Courbet, 06230 Villefranche-sur-Mer

Miscellaneous artists in Colombe d’Or restaurant in St Paul de Vence

This restaurant is famous for being the place where many artists paid for their food (and board, it’s also a hotel) in kind, by leaving works of art. It is packed full of original art by great names such as Léger, Braque, Miro & Calder.  Unsurprisingly you can’t visit without eating and it’s pricey, but for art lovers it’s well worth it for a unique meal. Need to book well ahead even for lunch.

Open every day except annual closing between end of Oct to Christmas. Place du Général de Gaulle, 06570 Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Miscellaneous artists in Hotel Negresco in Nice

Another special treat is a meal at the iconic 5 star Hotel Negresco on the Promenade des Anglais which gives you access to the hotel’s art collection of several thousand original pieces.

Open every day. 37 Promenade des Anglais, 06000 Nice

Miscellaneous artists at Shopping Promenade

A surprising place to see some art is at the shopping mall, Shopping Promenade in Cagnes sur Mer. It is dotted with sculptures by well-known artists such as Antony Gormley and César. You can get a map of all the works of art at the reception.

Open every day 10h-20h. 119 Av. Des Alpes, 06800 Cagnes sur Mer

Related Reading

Public Art on the Côte d’Azur

Cannes Cinema Street Art

Best Historic Villas on the Côte d’Azur to Visit

If you enjoyed this, please Pin it for later