Administratively part of greater-Antibes, Juan-les-Pins nevertheless has a much different vibe than its neighbour. Whereas Antibes is all about highlighting its Provencal heritage, Juan-les-Pins is brashly commercial. It's not just the Art Deco architecture that recalls Miami Beach but the unabashed showiness of the place.

And, speaking of beaches, it's worthwhile to check out the wondrous stretch of sandy beach--a rarity on the French Riviera. Even though most of the beach is "managed" (i.e. you pay to stretch out on a lounge chair), the 3kms of soft sand bordering a protected cove is most welcome and there is a substantial portion that is free and open to the public. See more on Juan-les-Pins beaches.

The shopping is also excellent in Juan-les-Pins, particularly along the coastal road which is lined with small boutiques. The town is a favored resort for Parisians in the garment trade and you can usually find interesting deals on women's clothes and accessories.

Then there's the nightlife! As soon as the weather turns mild, the streets of Juan-les-Pins are elbow-to-elbow at night as revelers weave from bar to cafe to restaurant to casino. Le Crystal bar-brasserie has been an institution since 1936 but nearby Pam-Pam also has its passionate devotees.

Without a doubt, the best time to visit Juan-les-Pins is during its prestigious Jazz Festival, Jazz a Juan, held each July. Keith Jarrett, Sonny Rollins, Herbie Hancock are just some of the big names that have recently appeared on the stage set amid the parasol pines. Even if the music wasn't wonderful (which it is) the setting alone is unrivalled. More.

Getting to Juan-les-Pins

By Bus
Envibus:From Villeneuve-Loubet, Biot, St-Paul-de-Vence.
RCA (Rapides Cote d'Azur): Line 200 from Nice and Cannes

By Train
TER: Line 4 from Cannes and Nice

Getting Around Juan-les-Pins

Getting around town by car is the worst mode of transport, to be avoided if possible. The narrow streets are easily clogged with traffic, especially near the sea, and parking is difficult. Walking the seaside promenade is pleasant and Envibus has an efficient network of city buses.