Villefranche-sur-Mer, France

Stretching between the sea and the coastal mountains of southern France, the French Riviera (aka the Côte d'Azur or "Blue Coast") long has been a playground of the rich and famous, and for good reason: The place is even more gorgeous than the people, and everybody knows the people are très beau. Artists, including Matisse, Picasso, Léger, Cocteau, and Renoir, were all drawn to the area's natural beauty, and today numerous museums here are devoted to their work. The coast's towns are strung along its length like pearls, many so close together that you can visit a few in just one day -- though all are crowded with tourists in the summer months, particularly in July and August.

Coming Ashore in Villefranche-sur-Mer:

Most ships visiting the Riviera call at Villefranche, anchoring offshore and ferrying passengers in via a short tender ride. Some luxury vessels dock or anchor directly at Monte Carlo, Cannes, and St. Tropez. From Villefrance, you can travel to the other towns via shore excursion or taxi. Nice is closest at just 6km (3¾ miles), and Monte Carlo (the capital of the independent principality of Monaco) lies just 9km (5½ miles) away. Cannes and St. Tropez are considerably farther off, at about 38km (24 miles) and 118km (73 miles), respectively.

Getting Around in Villefranche-sur-Mer:

Taxis are available at the piers but are expensive (you may want to double up with other passengers if you're planning to go any distance). Villefranche's train station is within walking distance of the terminal where tenders drop off passengers from ships anchored offshore, and offers a quick and inexpensive way to get to Nice and Monaco. Once you're in any of the towns, you can get to most sights on foot.