10 Things You (Probably) Didn’t Know About Antibes

Antibes… That charming town with sun-kissed alleys, colorful markets, and the smell of the sea always hanging in the air. You think you know it well? Let us surprise you with 10 unusual, fun and sometimes jaw-dropping facts about this not-so-sleepy coastal gem.

1. Antibes was… Greek!

Before it was French, Italian, or Roman, Antibes was known as Antipolis, founded by the Greeks in the 5th century BC. Wine and olives already flowed freely—some things never change!

2. The smallest Picasso museum in the world

In 1946, Picasso spent a productive summer painting in Antibes. He donated many works to the town, now housed in the Château Grimaldi—home of the first-ever Picasso museum.

3. Billionaires’ hideaway: the Cap d’Antibes

Move over Saint-Tropez. Cap d’Antibes is dotted with some of the French Riviera’s most exclusive villas, including the stunning Villa Eilenroc. And yes, you can visit it!

4. James Bond was almost here

Scenes from Never Say Never Again with Sean Connery were filmed just next door in Villefranche. But Antibes has hosted plenty of 60s spy vibes—hello, The Persuaders! Shaken, not stirred.

5. Napoleon marched right through

In 1815, Napoleon stopped in Antibes on his way to reclaim power. You can still walk a part of the famous Route Napoléon right here.

6. Europe’s biggest marina is in Antibes

Port Vauban boasts 1,642 berths (yes, that’s a lot), and welcomes yachts so huge they could house a helicopter or two. Luxury ahoy!

7. Fort Carré looks like a villain’s HQ

Built by Vauban, this star-shaped fortress has seen it all—military drills, spies, and centuries of secrets. Today, it’s one of the best views in town.

8. A touch of New York jazz on the Med

Juan-les-Pins, part of Antibes, has hosted the likes of Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald and Ray Charles. The Jazz à Juan festival still swings every summer beneath the palm trees.

9. A market full of thyme… and gossip

Every morning, the Provençal market in Old Antibes serves up more than just fresh produce. It’s where you’ll hear everything from recipe secrets to who did what last summer.

10. And tucked away… a secret garden hotel

Last but not least, there’s a place where you can sleep in peace, steps from the sea, in a cozy garden filled with cats, calm, and the scent of lavender.
🐾 Welcome to La Jabotte—our little slice of paradise.

✨ Ready to (re)discover Antibes?

Whether you’re a history lover, yacht dreamer, or jazz whisperer, Antibes has something for you. And La Jabotte is the perfect starting point to explore it all 💛

Categories: beach holidays, blog, history, hotel, location, tourism, Uncategorized, vacances