Cannes: One of the most glamorous destinations on the whole Riviera is Cannes, a name synonymous with film and glamour. Outside of the frenzy of the film festival in May, Cannes is a little more relaxed with a large stretch of beachfront (much of it reserved by hotels, bars and restaurants) and some ornate architecture. For a half day of star spotting, Cannes is a fun place to be in summer. The Cannes Tourist Office is at Palais des Festivals, La Croisette (tel: (04) 9299 8422; website: www.cannes-on-line.com).

Nice: Nice is only a short drive or train ride away to the west and offers a real buzz and brash charm, a world away from mannered Monte Carlo. The city's main tourist office is located right in the city centre at 5 promenade des Anglais (tel: (08) 9270 7407; website: www.nicetourism.com).

Menton: East of Monaco before the Italian border is the resort of Menton, a sleepy affair compared to Nice with a promenade and green parks on hand for idle strolling, and plenty of pavement cafes and restaurants to enjoy afterwards. The local tourist office is at 8 avenue Boyer (tel: (04) 9241 7676; website: www.menton.fr).