Those considering a French Riviera yacht charter this summer are in luck; with plenty of festivals and celebrations up and down the coast, this stretch of Cote d'Azur promises a lively social programme. If you are visiting the South of France on a crewed yacht charter vacation, here are just a few of the options at your disposal.
If you are undertaking a Mediterranean crewed yacht charter, make sure you head to the South of France. Bastille Day celebrations will be taking place across the country on France's national day, July 14th, with colorful firework displays being held at venues all along the coast.
Even if you're not going to be here for the big day, though, there are plenty of festivals and events to enjoy as the West Mediterranean gets into party season.
As well as music festivals, concerts and sporting events, some of the best beach clubs along the French Riviera will be hosting special evenings and guest DJ parties, so there's sure to be something going on which you and your guests will enjoy.
Here are just a few ideas to add to your itinerary.
St Tropez is the epitome of Riviera glamour. Whether you want to relax on the beach, get into the party groove or enjoy spending time at local events, this seaside town has everything you could want this summer.
Nikki Beach has a full itinerary this year, with a number of top international guest DJs hosting evening events that are sure to be in high demand.
Round off your evening with dinner at the fabulous Gaio restaurant club, just a quick tender ride from the marina, making it a perfect late-night option for those on a yacht charter.
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Nikki Beach, St Tropez
Beach Club
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GAÏO
Nightclub
Occurring every year at the end of May, the Cannes Film Festival is one of the most glamorous events of the year. Spanning over 12 days, charter guests can expect to witness a host of film premieres, red-carpet glitz and of course an enticing social calendar throughout the duration of the event.
Another hotlist upcoming event is the Pyrotechnic Arts Festival, with competitive shows performed by the world's leading pyrotechnicians on 14, 21 and 29 July and further dates in August.
The spectacular fireworks displays take place on the seafront in Cannes, so you will get a fantastic view from your yacht. Alternatively, limited places are offered on the rooftop of the Palais des Festivals, with a buffet and champagne, offering an uninterrupted view out over the Mediterranean.
Those looking to enjoy lively festivities in the evening should head to Baoli Beach. This relaxed seafront hotspot offers dining and unwinding during the day, before turning into one of the most happening club scenes in the Cote d'Azur in the evening, with show-stopping DJ sets.
For those interested in classical music, Suquet Musical Nights, staged at the Notre Dame d'Esperance church takes place in July and offers a program featuring orchestral and soloist performances under the stars.
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Baoli Cannes
Beach Club
The 'capital' of the French Riviera, Nice is a sophisticated and energetic destination at any time of year. One of the biggest draws in July is the Nice Jazz Festival, one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to 1948.
After the show, head to Plage Beau Rivage Beach Club, which hosts DJ parties through the summer evenings, while during the day, its VIP lounge is the perfect spot to relax over a light Mediterranean lunch from the beach menu.
If you're looking for something a bit special, and a chance to dress up for the evening, reserve a table at the two Michelin-Star Le Chantecler restaurants, in the iconic Hotel Negresco. Whether you want to impress your guests or enjoy a sophisticated romantic dinner, this is the place to go. Conveniently located right on the Promenade des Anglais, Le Chantecler offers the finest contemporary French cuisine in elegant, 'Old World' surroundings.
For a more laid-back dining experience, Le Plongeoir is a good choice, offering fresh seafood in a unique, family-friendly seafront location near the central marina.
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Le Chantecler
Restaurant
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Le Plongeoir
Restaurant
A byword for luxury and glamour, Monaco is renowned for its exclusive social scene, making it a favorite Mediterranean stopover for international visitors on private yacht charters.
The Monte Carlo Sporting Summer Festival begins in July, with tickets in high demand, and already sold out for some of the most popular acts.
Popular celebrity hangout Nikki Beach is the place to go to unwind in a relaxed and sophisticated setting. On the rooftop of the Fairmont Monte Carlo hotel, it offers breathtaking views over Monaco and the Mediterranean Sea and will be hosting an array of special party nights through July, including its signature White Party.
Monaco abounds with exciting restaurants and nightspots. Try the unique Italian-Japanese fusion menu at Twiga, which transforms into one of the city's hottest nightclubs in the early hours.
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Twiga
Restaurant
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Nikki Beach, Monte-Carlo
Beach Club
Feeling inspired for your next yachting vacation? Be sure to view and compare all luxury yachts for charter in the French Riviera.
