Original Travel Transforms The French Riviera Into A Living Canvas Of Art And History

The French Riviera has long been a sanctuary for artistic experimentation, where its distinctive landscapes, Mediterranean light and creative communities inspired some of modern art’s most influential figures. As Cultural Partner of the Royal Academy of Arts, Original Travel has launched a new seven day itinerary, Art and the Côte d’Azur, inspired by the Royal Academy’s forthcoming French Riviera exhibition. The journey invites travellers to experience the places that shaped the visions of artists including Matisse, Picasso, Renoir and Chagall, connecting the landscapes behind the masterpieces with the cultural institutions preserving their legacy.

Beginning in Èze, the hilltop village above Nice that captivated generations of artists, the itinerary explores the viewpoints and surroundings that influenced the creative direction of some of the twentieth century’s most important innovators. Travellers continue to Saint Paul de Vence, one of the Riviera’s most celebrated artistic communities, with visits to the Fondation Maeght, home to a major collection of twentieth century art, and La Colombe d’Or, the legendary hotel and restaurant whose walls form a living archive of works by Picasso, Matisse, Braque and other cultural figures. The journey also includes visits to the Fondation Carmignac and Château La Coste, expanding the experience into the region’s contemporary art scene.

In Vence, guests discover the Chapelle du Rosaire, a defining work by Henri Matisse that reflects his vision across architecture, stained glass, murals and interior details. The itinerary then moves towards Saint Tropez and the Musée de l’Annonciade, where works from the Fauves, Pointillists and Impressionists reveal the artists who were drawn to the colours and atmosphere of the Côte d’Azur. The journey continues through Porquerolles, reached by private water taxi, before concluding in Arles with visits to cultural destinations including LUMA Arles and Carrières des Lumières, where Picasso, The Art in Motion celebrates the artist’s creative output beyond traditional forms.

Designed around a deeper understanding of the region’s artistic identity, the experience includes private cultural tours and specialist art guides who provide insight into the movements, personalities and locations that defined the Riviera’s creative history. Travellers stay in luxury accommodation throughout the journey, including Hôtel Arlatan in Arles, while experiencing some of the region’s most celebrated dining destinations with reservations at restaurants including La Colombe d’Or, Club 55 and La Chassagnette.

The itinerary combines cultural discovery with the freedom to explore the Côte d’Azur at a personal pace, including international flights and seven days of car hire. Original Travel’s network of local specialists ensures every detail is carefully considered, from private experiences and restaurant access to insider recommendations that reveal a deeper connection to the destination.

Original Travel’s Art and the Côte D’Azur itinerary is available from £4,360pp to £6,960pp for a seven day journey, based on two people sharing and depending on season, accommodation and chosen experiences. The price includes return flights, seven days’ car hire and six nights’ hotel accommodation, alongside fast track airport assistance, lounge access and local concierge services. By combining art, history and luxury travel, the journey transforms the French Riviera into a living exhibition where every landscape tells a story.