Antibes

The 16^th-century ramparts, sparkling Mediterranean vistas, vivid blooms and cobbled Old Town have long made Antibes a favorite with artistic types, from visitors seeking an idyllic escape from the glitz of nearby Nice and Cannes, to renowned painters like Ernst and Picasso. The latter even has his own museum in the seaside city. Gaze down at the shimmering azure ocean from the hilltop fortress Bastion St André, find a relaxing spot along the span of pristine coastline, or shop the chic French boutiques and covered markets along the cobbled streets of the Old Town.