Races, sporting events, music and cinematic festivals... There are so many unrivalled highlights to savour in the South of France. But what else does the region offer for those who want to experience the ultimate A-list lifestyle? Plenty, that’s what. So here are our tips for squeezing the pips out of it. 

1. Book a yacht trip to see the sights from the water 

One of the most iconic ways to see Monaco is on the deck of a yacht in the harbour. A-list celebrities and racing moguls often charter private yachts for the weekend, allowing them to soak up the good life over champagne, canapés and panoramic vistas. Sound like a bit of you? Book a boat tour and set sail – you can even do this privately and have your own party or meals onboard. And don’t miss the opportunity to hop off onto dry land again and mosey around that famous racetrack... 

2. Stay in a swanky hotel 

Movie release dates are major deals for cinema fans, so awards season for the top flicks epitomises glitz and glamour. Big stars flock to Cannes to stay in lavish villas or super-plush hotels, and you can follow in their footsteps. Why not opt for a hotel with five stars above its door, just a short walk or drive from the Croisette, and relish the classiest fixtures, fittings and facilities? 

3. Experience the glamour of Menton’s Lemon Festival in style 

Menton Lemon Festival is charming, but why not experience it with a luxe twist? Base yourself somewhere snazzy to combine your festival experience with moments of R&R. And after trying and buying the zestiest goods in town, treat yourself to an afternoon of pampering with a spa treatment in one of the region’s renowned wellness centres. 

4. Get VIP access to the Nice Jazz Festival 

Nice Jazz Festival is one of the oldest and most prestigious in Europe. Go beyond just imagining attending intimate, front-row performances and exquisite food and drink in a prime location when you book a VIP ticket. It’ll mean exclusive access to premium seating, private bars and high-end lounges. Save some time for sauntering down the Promenade des Anglais too – you can’t beat beachy days in the rays! 

5. Savour fine dining in Michelin-starred restaurants 

The South of France is home to some of the world’s finest dining experiences, with countless Michelin-starred restaurants scattered across the area. Whether you're tucking into local seafood in Monaco or a Provençal feast in Cannes, eating around these parts is an event in itself. In Monaco, revel in an exquisite meal at Le Louis XV (by Alain Ducasse) at the Hôtel de Paris. It’s one of the most prestigious restaurants globally, with an unmatched wine list and impeccable service. In Cannes, dine at La Palme d'Or – the restaurant in the Hôtel Martinez – which has been awarded two Michelin stars.  

6. Shop like a celeb at exclusive boutiques 

As a shopper’s paradise, the boutique stores in the South of France lay on luxury fashion, jewellery and accessories. Totter in the footsteps of A-list celebrities as you shop along the Croisette in Cannes or the Avenue Monte Carlo in Monaco. Visit the iconic Chanel, Louis Vuitton or Gucci, where you can find the latest collections. You could even go boujee and book your own private shopping appointment with a stylist. New wardrobe, anyone? And for the magpies among you, take a trip to the Place du Casino in Monaco, where you’ll find exclusive watch and jewellery shops such as Cartier and Patek Philippe. 

7. Sip sundown cocktails in Monaco or Cannes 

When the sun sets over the Mediterranean, the South of France comes into its own. The nightlife here is uber-chic, with world-renowned nightclubs, elegant cocktail bars and swish beach clubs to make the most of. Head for a night out at Jimmy’z Monte-Carlo – one of the most famous local haunts, where you can dance until dawn alongside the jet-set crowd. Meanwhile, Cannes' Le Baoli is a club that celebrities make a beeline for, when toasting red-carpet events.