Antibes Port Vauban

The largest marina in Europe, with over 100 berths, Antibes’ ritzy Port Vauban is one of the most popular spots for yachts on the French Riviera. Originally a natural port run by everyone from the ancient Greeks to the Romans and the Barbarians, it wasn’t until the 15th century that the site was given adequate protection from raiders, when Louis XIV ordered military engineer Seigneur de Vauban to fortify the marina.  Port Vauban is home to the Yacht Club d’Antibes and has its own private heli-pad for all those superyacht owners like Roman Abramovich. Berths at Port Vauban don’t come cheap—each spot costs between 1 and 4 million euros. Each spring, the marina hosts the Antibes Yacht Show, which attracts more than 15,000 visitors every year.  Just behind the archway to Antibes’ Old Town on the western edge of the marina is a lively market that is open every day except Monday. After checking out all the glittering yachts, the market serves as a great place to order all kinds of Provençal cheeses and fruits, and to stop and enjoy a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants. 

Practical Info

Antibes has a train station on the main Nice-Cannes line, from which the marina is about a minute’s walk away.