Between Nice and Cannes, on the Côte d'Azur, the town of Antibes is the ideal place for a dream vacation with children. With an idyllic town center and a stunning natural setting that combines the intense blue of the Mediterranean coast with the green of the mountains, Antibes has everything you need to ensure that you and your children have an unforgettable stay.
What activities are available for kids in Antibes?
With over 23 kilometers of coastline, Antibes is the ideal place to enjoy outdoor activities in a pleasant, peaceful setting. Its intoxicating nature and beautiful villages steeped in history and culture, which have retained the traditional flavor of times gone by, provide the ideal setting for getaways and adventures your family will remember for a lifetime. What are some of the things you can do to create unforgettable memories with your children?
1. Picnic near the Antibes beacon
Located next to the Antibes forest, on a hill with a breathtaking view of the entire cape, the lighthouse is one of the most powerful in the Mediterranean and has been declared a historic monument. Lay out your checkered tablecloth and enjoy a day in the countryside while the kids dream of seafaring stories and play among the trees.
2. Explore the Villa Thuret botanical garden
This garden, created by 19th-century botanist Gustave Thauret and described by George Sand as the most enchanting he had ever visited, is now owned by the French state. Follow one of its 3 discovery trails devoted to aromatic plants, urban trees or Mediterranean flora. Let the kids discover this magical world of fragrance, color and sound.
3. Rent a bike and explore the old town of Antibes
Bikes are great in summer, and what could be better than exploring the beautiful town of Antibes with your children on a rental bike? Children will love pedaling along the cobbled streets of the old town, which have preserved their traditional architecture and narrow lanes. Take time to appreciate this Mediterranean village and recharge your batteries on one of its terraces with a slice of tropézienne (a typical local pastry).
4. Enjoy a day at a water park
Aquasplash is a water park of the French Riviera, open in the summer. Giant water slides, wave pool, refreshing water games in the summer, sliding on inflatables, or simply relaxing in the lagoon pool. Enjoy Aquasplash and its Sea, Safe, and Sun activities. Water activities are specifically planned for younger children, such as the Pirate Island, and adrenaline slides for daring teens, like the Triple Tour.
5. Explore the local fruit and vegetable market
Take a morning to explore the Provençal market in Antibes with your children. You’ll have the opportunity to taste many local specialties at the countless stands that make up the market. The children will be amazed by the stalls selling fruits, vegetables, and fish, and they can directly discover local products and their producers.
6. Play under the "Nomade" sculpture at the Bastion Saint Jaume
Children will enjoy playing under the "Nomade" sculpture, a monumental work by Jaume Plensa, while strolling around the old Bastion Saint Jaume and exploring the remains of the ancient fortifications. This magical place with breathtaking views was once a shipyard where the famous Calypso, commanded by Cousteau, set sail to explore the world’s marine riches.
7. Hike along the coastal trail
The coastal trail runs parallel to the sea and follows the entire Cap d'Antibes. Have fun listening to the sound of the waves, crossing the scattered boardwalks, or dipping your feet into the sea. You can take the opportunity to learn about the myriad of Mediterranean flowers and shrubs along the way and enjoy a typical meal at one of the traditional restaurants in Juan-les-Pins.
8. Visit the Maeght Foundation
Take a trip about fifteen kilometers from Antibes to show your children works by artists such as Miró, Léger, and Chagall. They will love the courtyard filled with colorful sculptures and fountains.
9. A day at the beach with the family
Children love to have fun building sandcastles or swimming in the sea. Antibes and its surroundings offer countless beaches where you can spend a fun family day. We recommend the fine sand of La Gravette, located in the heart of the town and protected from currents. Also, the beauty of the small Garoupe beach, a true paradise for fun.
10. A boat trip at Port Vauban
ort Vauban is the perfect place for a day at sea. The sailing mecca of the Mediterranean, what better place to spend a day on the warm waters? You can also sign the children up for a sailing lesson and enjoy a relaxing day at one of the many bars and shops in this beautiful harbor, while waiting for them to return and share their adventures with you.
