The 10 best things to do in Antibes

Located on the edge of the French Riviera, on a small peninsula close to Nice and Cannes, the town of Antibes embodies all the criteria of the French Provençal charm! Its position between the sea and the mountains makes it the perfect destination for a family vacation. What activities can you do to enjoy this beautiful South of France town with your family? Follow the guide!

Our ideas for fun activities with your children

Are you dreaming of a family moment where your children can enjoy exceptional activities?

How about a trip to the Marineland marine zoo? On the agenda: meeting the dolphins, spending a day as a caretaker, and immersing yourself in the shark tunnel!

Or perhaps a day at the Adventure Golf mini-golf in Antibes, in Jules Verne's fantastic world, will please the whole family? To help you make your choice, we've selected the best activities to organize during your family vacation on the French Riviera. Let's get started!

Marineland Antibes Marine Zoo

To kick off your stay on the French Riviera, what could be better than taking the whole family to Marineland Antibes? This park is one of the best marine zoos in Alpes-Maritimes. Seals, killer whales, dolphins, or sharks: the little ones (and the grown-ups!) will cherish an unforgettable memory of this family outing.

Discover the animals of the marine zoo

The Marineland Antibes marine zoo is home to dozens of species. From the killer whales to bottlenose dolphins, seals to sharks, there's something for everyone. Of course, we ensure that our little protégés are well taken care of and that their environment matches their natural living conditions. By spending time at Marineland Antibes, you'll discover a fascinating marine ecosystem and have the opportunity to encounter species, each one more captivating than the next.

Step into the shoes of a dolphin caretaker

The profession of a caretaker often sparks dreams... So, how about experiencing it yourself ? Join our caretakers on the dolphin island and meet your favorite animals while staying at the surface. The agenda? Insights about these fascinating marine mammals, a moment of play and interaction with them, and memories etched forever!

Meet the marine animals*

Another flagship activity at Marineland Antibes: meeting the marine animals! Equipped with waders provided by the park, you'll enter the natural habitat of dolphins, seals, orcas, or sharks to share a privileged moment with them. Just a few centimeters away from these mythical animals, and accompanied by a caretaker, you can learn more about these exceptional mammals. These encounters are available to children (measuring over 1.20 meters) - they will leave with stars in their eyes!

*Attention: Dolphin and killer whales encounters are available to visitors only on weekends and during school holidays.

Adventure Golf: The Miniature Golf of Antibes

Discover our 3 miniature golf courses

At the heart of the Marineland Antibes marine park, Adventure Golf mini-golf awaits you for a day full of twists and turns! This unusual mini-golf course was inspired by the theme of Jules Verne.

"The Journey from the Earth to the Moon," "The Mysterious Island," and "Five Weeks in a Balloon" are the three courses where you'll be able to showcase all your skills and challenge your family! Ready to score a "hole-in-one"?

Water Activities 

Observe marine life aboard a boat with a glass bottom

Embark on a glass-bottomed boat and discover the underwater world from a different perspective. Ideal for observing fish in their natural habitat, this activity is sure to delight the whole family. Take the opportunity to identify your children's favorite animals, and learn more from the captain's commentary.

Get started with scuba diving.

Have you ever wanted to swim with the fish of the Mediterranean coast? Well, come give it a try! Several centers offer introductory scuba diving sessions for beginners, both for adults and children. This activity provides a first experience of the underwater world and helps familiarize participants with the basics of diving (equipment, safety, etc.). A wonderful gift to offer the whole family during your stay in the south of France!

Activities for Sports Enthusiasts

Hike in the Natural Park of La Brague

The Natural Park of La Brague covers over 633 hectares, to the north and west of the technopole Sophia Antipolis. A true green haven, it offers its hikers typically Mediterranean vegetation. Many species have made their home in the park: warblers, blackbirds, owls, and hoopoes will accompany your walk with their songs!

Numerous routes are available, from a simple stroll to a more challenging hike. Just follow the footpaths, and let yourself be enchanted by the gentle scent of the forest.

Book a sailing course for your children at Port Vauban

The sailing school of Antibes offers various courses for the little ones (starting from 5 years old) to introduce them to the joy of sailing. Over five days, your children will have the opportunity to explore different activities such as catamaran sailing, kayaking, dinghy sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. All hands on deck, sailors!

Moments of Relaxation and Well-being

Outdoor Yoga Session in the Gardens of La Pinède

Need to take a breather? Come and enjoy an outdoor yoga session in the gardens of La Pinède! Free and open to all, this one-hour yoga session will allow you to rejuvenate your body and mind, all while breathing in the scent of the surrounding pine trees. What better way to recharge?

A Relaxing Day at Thalasso & Spa Antibes

Located in the heart of the French Riviera, the Thalazur thalassotherapy and spa center in Antibes welcomes you for a 100% zen experience. Enjoy a massage, a moment in the sauna, or book a complete stay to relax alone or with your family!

Local Gastronomy

Enjoy artisanal ice cream at Gelateria Amarena

In Antibes, the sun doesn't hold back, and there are many ice cream shops eager to cool you down. But do you know a true traditional and artisanal ice cream parlor, with a craftsmanship passed down from father to son? That's the case with Gelateria Amarena! Founder Bruno Sciacca, along with his son, creates ice creams from fresh fruits and vegetables, much to the delight of our taste buds. So, which flavor would you choose?

Try the Provencal specialties at Chez Jules restaurant (Le Don Juan)

Pissaladière, petits farcis niçois, gnocchis à la daube, and aïoli are all part of the menu at Chez Jules restaurant, also known as Don Juan. Florent, the manager, was born in Nice and discovered his passion for the restaurant business through his stepfather. If you pay him a visit, he'll share a bit of his love for the French Riviera, and introduce you to Provencal cuisine!

Nightlife

Attend a fireworks show at Fort Carré Beach

Every year, the pyromelodic festival of Antibes is organized on Fort Carré Beach. In total, over 10,000 people come to witness this nighttime show and leave with stars in their eyes! Your little ones will love it and be left in awe of this mesmerizing spectacle.

For Artists and Creatives

Take part in a pottery workshop for children at Galerie du Faune

Introduce the art of pottery to your little ones with this super creative workshop. The resident artist at Galerie du Faune welcomes you for a few hours to teach you her pottery techniques. Perfect for awakening the senses of the youngest, and rediscovering your inner child even if you're no longer one!

Discover the Natural Beauty of Antibes

It's time to return to Antibes and explore all its wonders: beaches, lighthouse, gardens, and the old town. The peninsula still has plenty to offer you!

Visit the beaches

After a good day of walking, there's nothing like a dip in the sea! And if you're not in the mood for a refreshing break, lay down your towel and soak up the sun. Many beaches are easily accessible from Antibes, like the Salis Beach with its fine sand.

If you're looking for tranquility, head to one of the private beaches at Garoupe Beach. There's even a trail that allows you to explore Cap d'Antibes along the coastline (though please note: some sections can be quite challenging to access!).

Explore the Cap d'Antibes

Stroll along the Coastal Pathway

Also known as the 'Tirepoil' trail, the coastal path on the south side of Cap d'Antibes is a feast for the eyes. This well-maintained little hike, thanks to various stairs and pathways, is accessible to all (although comfortable shoes are recommended!). In total, the walk will take you a maximum of 2 hours, covering a distance of 5km.

And for a fun fact: the name 'Tirepoil' is said to come from the constant sea breeze that tousles hikers' hair throughout the hike!

The Garoupe Lighthouse

The Garoupe Lighthouse is the only lighthouse in the region open to the public. Located on the peninsula of Antibes, it can be reached on foot via the Calvaire path or by car via the lighthouse road. Whether alone or with family, the lighthouse is easily visited and impresses with its imposing silhouette. In terms of history, its construction was completed in 1948, since when it has proudly stood against the forces of nature!

Take a stroll through the gardens and parks

The Pine Grove Gardens

The Pine Grove Gardens (or 'La Pinède') are considered the lungs of the city of Antibes. This green space is actually divided into two parts. There is a playground and rides to the north for the little ones. And the 'Pinède Gould' area to the south, where the metal structure hosts numerous concerts and festivals every year. Perfect for relaxing, with a refreshing ice cream!

Exflora Parc

Located on the outskirts of Antibes, this 5-hectare park is the newest addition to the gardens of Antibes. A true haven of greenery and freshness, you can stroll among the olive trees and admire this typically Mediterranean garden. Come and relax for the day, bring outdoor games, and prepare a picnic to feed the whole family!

Historical and Cultural Sites

Discover the Old Town of Antibes

The Provençal Market

Every morning, the Provençal Market in Antibes offers its visitors fresh local products, charcuterie, mountain cheeses, spices, and Mediterranean specialties. Whether you're doing your weekly shopping or just want to meet the various vendors, a stroll through the Provençal Market is always a welcome experience!

The Cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-la-Platea*

Located just a stone's throw away from the Provençal Market and the Picasso Museum, the Cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-la-Platea (or Immaculate Conception) is a modern landmark not to be missed on your stroll in Antibes.

*Please note that the church is only open during mass times, so be sure to check the visiting hours before heading there.

Visit museums for the whole family

Picasso Museum (Grimaldi Castle)

Looking for a more cultural outing? Take a trip to the Picasso Museum, located in the Château Grimaldi, with your children! Colors, unreal forms, and more or less abstract symbols: this museum dedicated to the Spanish artist will captivate the whole family. In fact, he said it himself: 'It took me my whole life to learn to draw like a child!

The Sea and Coast Space of Cap d'Antibes

Discover the waters of the Mediterranean without getting wet: it's possible with this space dedicated to underwater life located on the Graillon battery! Your children can explore the various habitats of the coast here (posidonia seagrass meadows, sandy bottoms, coral reefs, and open water spaces). And for a few extra euros, they can (almost) immerse themselves with the help of a virtual reality headset.

Fort Carré

Perched on the Saint-Roch peninsula, Fort Carré offers a breathtaking view: a panorama of Antibes, its port, and the Bay of Angels! This military fort dating back to the 16th century is one of the earliest examples of bastioned fortification in France. The whole family will feel like they're taking a real leap into French history, ready to repel any enemies!